The decision to dissolve the Koompahtoo Aboriginal Land Council – Chairperson Bev Manton

11 March, 2010

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Statement from the Chairperson of NSWALC in relation to the dissolution of the Koompahtoo Local Aboriginal Land Council.

11 March 2010

The decision to dissolve the Koompahtoo Aboriginal Land Council is a sad day for land rights. The decision brings closure on a very sad chapter and much work is now required to repair and deal with the aftermath.,

The actions of a few have cost the members of KLALC - and ultimately the land council network - over $9,000,000.

The decision to dissolve a Local Aboriginal Land Council is one which both the Minister and NSWALC considered to be an option of last resort.

It is a great pity that the sins of the few have led to the demise of the LALC. I'm sure the lessons of Koompahtoo will not be lost on all members of the land rights network committed to good and transparent governance.

There are, irrefutably, Aboriginal and non Aboriginal people who played a key role in the demise of the Koompahtoo Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Those people must face up to their part in this sad chapter. They must accept their share of responsibility for what has transpired.

However, it is crucial that people know and understand that the NSW Aboriginal Land Council will not support corruption in any form. We will act to stamp it out quickly and decisively.

Rest assured the NSW Aboriginal Land Council will remain focussed on protecting the interests of members and other Aboriginal people.

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Media contact: Chris Graham, 0407 555 328

Acknowledgement

We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of the lands where we work as well as across the lands we travel through. We also acknowledge our Elders past, present and emerging.

Artwork Credit: Craig Cromelin, from a painting he did titled, "4 favourite fishing holes". It is a snippet of his growing years on the Lachlan River, featuring yabby, turtle, fish and family.

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