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AUSTRALIA - The Australian Government has handed the Devil's Marbles in central Australia back to traditional Aboriginal landowners.
Calling it the "opening of a new chapter", Federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Jenny Macklin said the commonwealth was building on the apology to the Stolen Generation.
"[Prime Minister Kevin Rudd] said that we must deal with the unfinished business of the nation," said Macklin, who marked the handover by pouring sand into the hands of two locals. "Today's handover is about opening this new chapter."
Traditional owners launched a claim for the popular tourist attraction, about 100km south of Tennant Creek, 28 years ago.
"It's been a tough, and often a very sad road for all of them," said Central Land Council director David Ross.
"And I sincerely hope that these hand-backs will provide a sense of peace and relief."
Known locally by the name Karlu Karlu, the Devil's Marbles is one of the area's most recognised landmarks and the huge granite boulders attract more than 100,000 visitors a year. The handover also marks the first time a claim has been reached outside the court in exchange for a 99-year lease.
Northern Territory's Minister for Parks and Wildlife, Alison Anderson, said the reserve would remain open to the public, with traditional owners signing off on an agreement which allows the land to continue as a national park. It will be run under a joint management scheme with local government.
Anderson said the scheme would be "a catalyst to get people back on country" while boosting local economies, with about 300 Aborigines expected to benefit. Macklin also returned title to the Davenport Range National Park on Tuesday.
- AAP
