Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation is celebrating the declaration of the Bellinger Valley as an Indigenous Protected Area, recognising the deep cultural, spiritual and environmental significance of Budaabang Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr and supporting Gumbaynggirr-led care for Country, jobs on Country and stronger partnerships with community and visitors.
Walking Together on Budaabang Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr
The Bellinger Valley has always been a place of deep story for Gumbaynggirr people – the sound of the river, the mist in the gullies, the old trees standing watch over our tracks. Today, we are proud to share some good news about how we are protecting this special place for generations to come.
The Bellinger Valley has been announced as an Indigenous Protected Area, with Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation leading the way. This recognition means that the cultural and the environmental importance of our Country is being formally acknowledged and supported. It is a step forward for Gumbaynggirr people having a strong voice in how our lands and waters are cared for.
An Indigenous Protected Area is more than a line on a map. It is about looking after Country the way our Old People have always done – through cultural knowledge, ceremony, story and careful management. For us, that includes caring for the river, the rainforest and the many plants and animals that live here, as well as protecting important cultural sites and songlines.
This announcement brings real opportunities for our community. It opens up pathways for Gumbaynggirr Rangers and other jobs on Country, creates chances for young people to learn from Elders on the land, and support projects that restore and heal the environment. It is good news for the whole valley – for First Nations and non Indigenous community members who love this place and want to see it healthy and thriving.
The IPA also supports us to work with visitors and landholders in a better way. More and more people are coming to enjoy spots like the rivers and forests. Through the IPA, we can work together to manage visitor numbers, look after sensitive areas, and create respectful experiences that keep both people and Country safe. We want everyone to enjoy this beautiful place, but to do it in a way that honours Gumbaynggirr culture and law.
This is just the beginning of a long journey. Over the coming years, Yurruungga will continue to talk with Elders, community, neighbours and government partners about how we walk this path together. We are excited to share updates, stories from our Rangers and Guardians,and opportunities for the community to be involved.
For now, we pause to celebrate. The recognition of the Bellinger Valley as an Indigenous Protected Area is a powerful affirmation of what Gumbaynggirr people have always known – that this Country is precious, and that we have a responsibility to care for it.
If you would like to learn more or talk about how you can be part of this journey, please get in touch with Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation. Together, we can keep Budaabang Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr strong.
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