Three spectacularly presented signs were officially unveiled at a celebration at Jilgi, Ganyiira and Buddabadoo earlier this month.
The Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples Prescribed Body Corporate Aboriginal Corporation (GMYPPBC) was funded by Wet Tropics Management Authority to develop the signs for the GMYPPBC Trustee Area south of Yarrabah.
Signs were developed by the GMYPPBC Board of Directors and include beautiful artwork by volunteer artists Maynard Bulmer and Connie Richards depicting the stories for the local area.
The signs have been installed in each of the three locations and were revealed at an Official Reveal Ceremony attended by the Mandingalbay Yidinji People, Gunggandji People, local community members and stakeholders.
Dignitaries included the local MP Curtis Pitt, Wet Tropics Management Authority Chair Leslie Shirreffs and Yarrabah Mayor Ross Andrews.
Mr Pitt said he was honoured to share a few words and described it as an ‘important day for the Southern Prescribed Body Corporate Board at Yarrabah’.
“This group has shown tremendous leadership and vision since their Native Title Determination in 2012 to ensure continuity of culture, retention of language and vision for the future, including eco-tourism opportunities,” he said.
GMYPPBC Executive Officer Helen Tait said the signs were symbolic.
“They are a sign of what the GMY People have achieved over the years and through their native title determination,” she said.
“And they are also a sign of what is to come for the organisation and future generations of the GMY People.”
She said the GMYPPBC Board of Directors also wanted to recognise and thank:
- Artists Maynard Bulmer and Connie Richards for their time and contribution to the GMYPPBC Signage Project; and
- Wet Tropics Management Authority for their funding commitment and partnering with the GMYPPBC to develop these important signs.
Article source: Christine Howes: www.christinehowes.com.au