ISSUE 28 JALANDOOK (SUMMER) EDITION 2019

GLaWAC News

Highlights of Issue 28:• Community success stories• Gunaikurnai Recognition and Settlement Agreement review• Lake Tyers Camping and Access Strategy update• Gunaikurnai and Victorian Government Joint Management Plan update• Vocational training and education success stories• Introducing new staff• How are we tracking with our Business Planning?

WELCOME TO OUR BUMPER EDITION OF GLaWAC NEWS!We’ve made some changes to the format of the newsletter and hope you enjoy reading about the work GLaWAC has been doing on behalf of our Members since the last newsletter.

2 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

ELDERS’ COUNCILTHE Elders’ Council comprises Elders who are members of GLaWAC and appointed by the descendants of each identified Apical Ancestor1. The Elders’ Council come together twice a year and provide critical cultural leadership to the organisation. The Elders will also be brought together for events and when cultural guidance is required. GLaWAC acknowledges the contribution of the current and our past Elders’ Council.

The current Elders’ Council members are:Aunty Gwen Atkinson, Aunty Beryl Booth, Deanna Campbell, Aunty Margaret Donnelly, Aunty Shirley Foster, Aunty Maria Harrison, Aunty Gwen McGregor, Aunty Julie Mongta, Aunty Lena Morris, Aunty Rachel Mullett, Aunty Madge Siely, Charmaine Singleton, Aunty Glenis Solomon, Aunty Olive Stevens, Aunty Glenys Watts and Aunty Fay Voss.

GLAWAC BOARD OF DIRECTORSTHE Board is responsible for overseeing the running of GLaWAC on behalf of all members and make decisions about the running of the corporation. There is a minimum of six and maximum of ten Directors on the Board at any given time, with up to two independent or specialist non-member Directors appointed alongside Directors who are members of the corporation.

The current GLaWAC Board of Directors are:Brian Stevens (Chair), Dr Doris Paton (Vice-Chair), Glenys Watts, Troy McDonald, Paula Morgan and Libby Dummett (Independent Director).

The Board is continuing to seek a second new independent Director and other experts to support our board sub-committees.

 

Who’s who at GLaWAC?

This Issue

Elders by the Dam at Forestec

WHO’S WHO AT GLAWAC? 2

Elders’ Council 2

GLaWAC Board of Directors 2

UPDATE FROM THE GLAWAC BOARD CHAIR, BRIAN STEVENS 3

UPDATE FROM THE CEO, ROGER FENWICK 4

OUR COMMUNITY 5

Community successes 5

Den of Nargun Women’s Day 5

Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll 2018 5

Bruthen Primary School receives Outstanding Koorie Education Award 5

Jirra Moffatt to study a Doctorate in Physiotherapy 5

Calendar of Events 5

Whose track is that? 5

RECOGNITION AND SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REVIEW 6

Key steps in the RSA Package review 6

Gunaikurnai Native Title 6

What we have achieved so far through the RSA Package? 6

OUR CULTURE AND COUNTRY 7

Cultural Hub program 7

Lake Tyers Camping and Access Strategy update 8

ON COUNTRY 9

New Water Crew 9

Looking after Gippsland Lakes 9

Registered Aboriginal Party (Rap) Cultural Heritage Assessment Team Update 9

Natural Resource Management (NRM) Team update 9

Joint Management (JM) Team update 9

Even Koalas need a health-check! 10

Seacombe Landing habitat restoration underway 10

Working with our partners to manage Country 10

GUNAIKURNAI AND VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT JOINT MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE 11

OUR ORGANISATION 12

Introducing new staff 12

Uncle Lloyd Hood, Water Crew Team Leader 12

Kyla Di Fiore, Executive Assistant, CEO Office 12

Karen Campbell, Finance and Administration Officer 12

Robbie Farnham, Joint Management Crew Manager 12

Vocational training and education success stories 12

A pilot Hospitality Training Course 12

Joint Managed Ranger Traineeship 12

Earn While Your Learn Program (EWYL) 12

Lakes Entrance Secondary College students spend morning at GLaWAC 12

GLAWAC’S ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE 13

HOW ARE WE TRACKING WITH OUR BUSINESS PLANNING? 14

OUR ECONOMY 15

Snapshot of GLaWAC’s Financial Status 15

1 There are 25 Gunaikurnai Apical Ancestors registered in the Native Title Consent Determination.

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 3

BEFORE I move on to our successes, I want to pay tribute to Dr Bonita Mabo AO and acknowledge her advocacy for a reconciled and equal Australia. As our focus turns to the review of the 2010 Gunaikurnai Recognition and Settlement Package this year, we are reminded of the great legacy of Aboriginal people like Eddie and Bonita Mabo and their campaign for Indigenous land rights.

At the start of a new year, it is important to take stock and celebrate what we have achieved as a Corporation. At the heart of our work is our vision that the Gunaikurnai community is proud of the way that we represent and include the mob in achieving broad respect for our culture, for the protection and healing of our land, and to gain genuine economic independence.

We have achieved much over the past year. We have brought our clans and communities together to make sure we keep the lines of communication open and our work remains aligned to the aspirations of GLaWAC’s membership base. We have developed two important planning documents - GLaWAC Corporate Plan 2017-2022 and GLaWAC Economic Development Strategy 2017-2022 – to prioritise our work and provide clear direction to our staff. The Board sets simple Plan on a Page directions for everyone to focus on what projects and initiatives are being reviewed each year. Our current focus areas in this annual plan include:

• Community and members

• Delivering contracted works

• Growing in the Latrobe Valley

• Joint Management implementation

• Recognition and Settlement Package review.

Update from the GLaWAC Board Chair, Brian StevensWelcome to 2019 and our first GLaWAC News for the year.

Joint Management Plan launch: L – R Brian Stevens, Minister Lily D’Ambrosio, Grattan Mullett, Roger Fenwick

Brian Stevens

2018 Annual General MeetingTHE GLaWAC Annual Report 2017-2018* tabled at the Annual General Meeting held last November, highlighted our achievements and included the audited financial reports. Thank you to our Elders’ Council, members and staff for a successful and well-run AGM. GLaWAC continues to grow and is focused on community involvement, conversations and partnerships. During 2019, we will also be reviewing our member benefits and looking at ways to build our membership base and in particular, attract more of our young people to step up and be part of the Corporation.

Changes to GLaWAC Board of DirectorsTHERE were some changes to the Board of Directors at the AGM, and I thank outgoing Board Directors Joanne Brunt, Russell Mullett, Graeme Dear and David Brennan for their contribution and commitment to GLaWAC.

Two new Directors were appointed, all with great expertise and experience - Paula Morgan and Libby Dummett. Paula is a proud Gunai woman and current CEO of the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association. Libby comes to the Board as Independent Director and has over 15 years’ experience in the not-for-profit, financial services, government and philanthropic sectors and is currently part of the management team of Community Sector Banking. On behalf of the Board and staff at GLaWAC, a big welcome to Paula and Libby.

The Corporation is in a strong financial position and the Board’s focus for the first half of 2019 will be on the review of the 2010 Gunaikurnai Recognition and Settlement Agreement to find out if the agreement has delivered what it set up to achieve for the Gunaikurnai and the State of Victoria. An Independent Reviewer to be appointed shortly and a report will be prepared for the Board’s consideration by May 2019. When the report is endorsed by the Board, it will be presented to the Victorian Attorney-General. We will keep you informed of progress via the GLaWAC website and this newsletter.

On page 14, there is a report which provides a snapshot of how GLaWAC is tracking against the Annual Business Plan to date. I encourage you to provide feedback on how you think we are going, and how can improve on these targets.

This edition of GLaWAC News celebrates our successes as a Corporation and provides an update on our work with the regular reports from the On Country crews, as well as the Cultural Hub program that supports the Corporation’s activities through ongoing community engagement with Government agencies, stakeholder groups and education service providers.

Enjoy our stories, and please let us know if there is any other information you would like to read about in future editions of GLaWAC News.

WE were part of the team that developed the first Joint Management Plan in Victoria launched by the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, the Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio in September 2018 at the Knob Recreation Reserve in September last year. The Plan is a landmark document for both the Gunaikurnai people and the Victorian Government. It sets a new direction for working with our joint management partner organisations to manage the ten parks and reserves that are under Aboriginal Title and enables us to have real influence on how wurruk is managed.

The partnership will also bring the opportunity for knowledge sharing and the development of employment, education and training. Last year alone, saw a total of 13 of GLaWAC’s staff successfully gaining qualifications in Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management, Conservation and Land Management, and as Authorised Aboriginal Compliance Officers. This is a huge achievement and I congratulate everyone for their commitment to their professional and personal development.

Joint Management Plan

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC)

Annual Report 2017-2018

*The GLaWAC Annual Report 2017-2018 is available on the GLaWAC website at www.gunaikurnai.org under the Resources tab. Hard copies are also available by phoning Reception on 03 5152 5100.

4 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

My priority coming into this role has been to help develop GLaWAC as a culturally strong, forward thinking, sustainable and community focused organisation; an organisation that advocates on behalf of its members and provides its staff with the opportunity to excel professionally and personally.Our staff are working hard to provide opportunities for members, men and women to get involved back on Country and I was happy to hear that our recent Women’s Day at Den of Nargun was a success. We continue to focus on supporting our members across all parts of Gunaikurnai country and encouraging more to get involved in GLaWAC events.

On page 6 there is a short summary of the current review of our recognition and settlement agreement with the State of Victoria. This review will set us up for renegotiating further benefits and will occur between February and June 2019. GLaWAC will ensure members and non-member Native Title holders are offered the opportunity to participate in the review.

I recently undertook a workforce review in the middle of last year to support the growth of GLaWAC and increase our capabilities across a range of areas. A number of roles were advertised with a large number of high-calibre candidates applying. I am delighted that many of our existing staff took the opportunity to polish up their CVs and successfully applied for leadership roles. Grattan Mullett Snr is now General Manager Culture and Maureen Penwill is our Business Manager. Both are part of GLaWAC’s senior leadership team and their new positions more accurately reflect their areas of responsibility and strengthen our focus on Members and Elders and business support.

GLaWAC has been extremely fortunate in securing two highly respected community members to key roles. Russell Mullett, former Board Director, will manage the RAP Cultural Heritage Assessment Team and Uncle Lloyd Hood has been appointed to lead the newly-formed Water Crew. Ray Thomas, a highly regarded Aboriginal artist is our new Cultural Business Development Coordinator. Russell, Uncle Lloyd and Ray bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise and we are delighted to have them as part of the GLaWAC team. Another appointment has been made with Marc Higgins commencing as our Chief Operating Officer this year. Marc is a Wiradjuri man from NSW with years of business experience. We will profile Marc in a future newsletter.

On page 13 you can see our current Organisational Chart and on page 12 we profile four of our new staff members: Uncle Lloyd Hood, Water Crew Team Leader; Kyla Di Fiore, Executive Assistant CEO Office; Robbie Farnham, Joint Management Manager; and Karen Campbell, Finance/Administration Officer. I congratulate everyone on their new positions and am confident that we have the right people in place to help take GLaWAC forward. There will be further roles advertised shortly that will complete GLaWAC’s new organisational structure.

GLaWAC is committed to developing and mentoring our staff, and I am extremely proud of the 13 staff members who successfully completed formal training last year, and I want to make particular mention of Bianca Baxter. Bianca started working with GLaWAC as a casual receptionist over 18 months ago and quickly showed her skills and capabilities and was rewarded with a full-time reception roll in late September 2017. Bianca also showed a keen interest in the RAP Cultural Heritage work and joined the Crew whenever she could. With the support of GLaWAC, she enrolled in formal training and last month Bianca donned her graduation cap and robes to receive her Certificate IV in Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management at Latrobe University.

This certificate is a nationally accredited qualification which provides training in the skills and knowledge to work in the cultural heritage industry. Bianca showed tremendous commitment, driving thousands of kilometres back and forth to Melbourne and spending five days away from her family each month for intensive study throughout the year. Her hard work paid off with Bianca moving from her Reception role at GLaWAC and being appointed as RAP Site Manager Crew Leader. Well done Bianca!

Nicky Moffatt and Paula Martin completed their Certificate IV in Government Investigations. The training was undertaken over eight days with Aboriginal Victoria and gave Nicky and Paula a deeper understanding of the compliance and enforcement provisions of the Aboriginal Heritage Act. Over time, GLaWAC aims to have staff who can conduct cultural heritage compliance work across the settlement area.

Ten staff completed their Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management, delivered by Federation Training at the Forestec Campus. Training was undertaken over a seven-month period and staff now have a recognised qualification in conservation and land management. Congratulations to Kobi Cook, Michael Farnham, Bradley Hood, Corey Jack, Jai Nelson, Grattan Mullett Jnr, Patrick Mullett, Nigel Pearce, Kealey Ratzmann and Shay Terrick.

Five of our staff also received their Five-Year Service Certificates. Mick Farnham, Bradley Hood, Grattan Mullett Jnr, Patrick Mullett and Nigel Pearce are valued members of GLaWAC’s On Country Team and it is important to acknowledge and celebrate these employment milestones.

Update from the CEO, Roger FenwickHappy New Year to our members, partners, stakeholders, staff and your families.

Bianca Baxter receiving her Graduation Certificate.

Right: Roger Fenwick with the 5 Year Service Recipients: Grattan Mullett Jr, Bradley Hood, Patrick Mullett, Nigel Pearce and Mick Farnham.

5 Years Service award recipients

GLaWAC Staff Christmas break up

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 5

Den of Nargun Women’s DayON Wednesday 12 December last year, Paula Martin, GLaWAC’s Cultural Heritage Officer and 21 female community members of varying ages came together on country to reconnect with land and each other. The day started with a Welcome delivered by community Elder Aunty Madge Siely, followed by morning tea and a walk and talk on country at the Den of Nargun in the Mitchell River National Park. The participants soaked up the scenery and sounds of country.

After the walk the group drove to Coonawarra Farm Resort in Glenaladale for a BBQ lunch and craft activities such as jewellery making, Emu feather craft, painting and Possum skin design using a wood burner.

“The art work created by the ladies was amazing. We look forward to getting together again - yarning, crafting and building on from the positive connections and meaningful outcomes.”

“A big thankyou to all involved. Without a supportive organisation and amazing community being part of the event, the day wouldn’t have happened,” Paula Martin.

If you would like to participant in future events or have ideas for future events, please contact Paula Martin, Cultural Heritage Officer on 03 5152 5100.

Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll 2018Gunai elder, Uncle Graham ‘Bootsie’ Thorpe was one of nine inspiring Aboriginal leaders inducted into the Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll last October.

The Honour Roll celebrates the achievements of Victorian Aboriginal people, past and present. This year marks the eighth year of the Honour Roll, with more than 100 Aboriginal Victorians now inducted. Each inductee has dedicated their life to helping others and giving back to their community, while fighting for self-determination and equality. Their personal stories will be added to the Honour Roll, which is on permanent display in the Victorian Parliament.

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) and Gippsland East Aboriginal Co-operative (GEGAC) congratulates Uncle Bootsie and thanks him for his tireless work and commitment to community.

To read about Uncle Bootsie’s story, visit vic.gov.au/aboriginalvictoria

Jirra Moffatt to study a Doctorate in PhysiotherapyJirra Moffatt, the youngest son of Nicky and Tracey Moffatt, graduated from Melbourne University in December with a Bachelor of Science. He has been accepted into the Health and Medicine faculty at Melbourne University next year to study a Doctorate in Physiotherapy.

Jirra was born in Bruthen the youngest of nine children and the first child to complete Year 12 and University. He went to Tambo Upper Primary and was the first recipient of the Indigenous Scholarship at Gippsland Grammar. Jirra then received a Bursary to Trinity College at Melbourne University and was one of the 20 recipients of an ITNewcom Foundation Scholarship which also offers mentoring during and after his post-graduate degree.

Jirra excelled at sports, was regional champion in Hockey, achieved a medal in national rowing and was a premiership football player with Bairnsdale Football Club and Trinity College, playing in the TAC Cup with VAYSAR.

A proud Gunai man practicing and sharing his culture with many people, organisations and dignitaries. He has been a traditional dancer since he was four years old, under the guidance of his Uncle Bluegum and his father and continues the tradition of his family by being a mentor to other indigenous students. He maintains a strong connection to his country, community and family and hopes his experiences and achievements will benefit others in the community and inspire them to reach their goals.

GLaWAC congratulates Jirra for his outstanding achievements so far and wishes him the very best with the next exciting stage of his career.

Our CommunityCommmunity successes

Calendar of EventsGLaWAC is organising and/or supporting events during the year, so please put these dates in your diary and keep checking out the website – www.gunaikurnai.org – for further details. Look forward to seeing you there and having a yarn.

EVENT LOCATION DATE

9th Annual Koorie Surf Comp & Community Day – organised by DjilayNgalu

Cape Conran 24 January

GLaWAC Board of Directors Meetings

Alternating between Forestec and a Latrobe Valley venue

Bi-monthly commencing February 2019

Cultural Learning Day* Art Excursion to Mount Hotham - open to all Bookings required via GLaWAC

Wednesday 13 February

Elders’ Council GLaWAC, Forestec March/April - date TBC

Woorara Wanik Waring- Mountain pathway to the sea - Art Show

GLaWAC, Forestec Friday 22 March - Monday 29 April

Community Yarning: Talk about the Settlement Review and your thoughts on Treaty

GLaWAC, Forestec April - September

Bruthen Primary School receives Outstanding Koorie Education Award

Jirra Moffatt with his parents on his Graduation Day

The track shown in Issue 27 of the newsletter was of a Sambar Deer that had walked along the beach at Lake Tyers.

Sambar Deer were introduced to Australia from India, Ceylon and Malaysia in the 1860s. Sambar Deer are a very large deer. A mature stag can stand 130cm at the shoulder and weigh up to 230kg. The hinds are smaller in size and stand up to 110cm and weigh up to 180kg. Sambar Deer are solitary by nature, extremely wary and inhabit difficult and complex terrain. They frequent many different habitat types from heavy forest, rough mountainous terrain to more open-country, and even along the beach at Lake Tyers.

Whose track is that?The answer

will be in the next issue of

GLaWAC News.

M508459

5157 520184 Main Street, Bruthen7 Days a week lunch and dinner

Like us onfacebook

Christmas Trading HoursChristmas Day 11am - 1pm

Boxing Day Trading as normal

WISHING EVERYONE A SAFE AND

Garage

Bruthen

cORNERCORNER

71 Main Street, BruthenPh: 5157 5715 M: 0427 976 799

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATEDTRADING HOURSMon - Fri 8am - 5.30pmSATURDAY BY APPOINTMENT

GENERAL

REPAIRS

Roadworthy testing

LOG BOOK

SERVICING

4WD Servicing and repairs

12 Bruthen View

MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2018 | BAIRNSDALE ADVERTISER Bruthen’s big Koorie education winA suggestion from a former student twoyears ago has led to the Bruthen PrimarySchool community not only expanding itsknowledge and appreciation of the localKoorie culture but also achieving a majoraward in the process.On Friday, October 26, a team from theschool headed to Melbourne for the 2018 Vic-torian Education Excellence Awards, whichrecognise individual endeavours and team ini-tiatives that contribute to improved outcomesfor students through leadership, innovationand collaboration by teachers, principals, busi-ness managers and educational support staff,and it was here that the Bruthen contingentwas “ecstatic” to be announced the state-widewinner for ‘Outstanding Koorie Education’.The school’s journey into expanded Koorieeducation began two years at the suggestion offormer student, Hayden Deaves.“When I asked Hayden what the schoolneeded to do to make it an even better schoolhe replied, ‘Mrs Young, I think we need tolearn more about the Koorie culture’,” schoolprincipal, Michelle Young, said.“He said, ‘If we help everyone understandthe Koorie culture then we can build greaterrespect for each other’.”

Hayden’s suggestion led to talks with localElders, engagement with Koorie educationalsupport officers, Bradley Kenny and localelder, Lynnette Solomon-Dent, and localKoorie community members and yarning tostudents and community to build a vision forculture and language at the school. Their efforts saw the school nominated earli-er this for the Outstanding Koorie EducationAward, which led to its shortlisting at the be-ginning of term three.Then at the end of term three, classroomteacher and local Gunaikurnai woman, NicoleHood, and Mrs Young shared the school’s ini-tiatives with eight panel members in a 45-minute interview. This was followed by fur-ther shortlisting to the state’s final three. “To put that into perspective, we were recog-nised for our achievements from more than49,243 teachers and 1531 Victorian schools,”Mrs Young said.

Team leaders, Miss Hood, Ms Solomon-Dent, and Grattan and Lizzy Mullett (KoorieElders and school parents) attended theawards night at the Regent Plaza in Mel-bourne, and were justifiably thrilled when theschool was announced the winner of the 2018Victorian Education Excellence Award forOutstanding Koorie Education.Ms Solomon-Dent proudly delivered the ac-ceptance speech in local traditional language. An important member of the team, Mr Kennywas unable to make the Melbourne event, but

did share in the celebrations when the win wasannounced at the school assembly the follow-ing Monday.“Bruthen Primary School is honoured to re-ceive this award amid such outstanding educa-tors and we are extremely proud of Nicki,Lynnette, Bradley, Grattan and Lizzy whohave led our whole school initiative,” Mrs

Young said.She acknowledged the support of the stu-dents, school families and community mem-bers who have embraced the school’s cultureand language program as they strive to buildrespect for themselves, others and placethrough understanding.

“Bradley has been inspirational in helping usmake connections with the Elders and Kooriecommunity, guiding us through Koorie proto-cols and supporting Nicole in the developmentof our culture and language initiative,” MrsYoung said.“Lynnette has been our driving force behinddeveloping a Koorie language program. She isa caretaker of Gunaikurnai language and hasbeen given the responsibility from her Elders,Aunty Rae and Uncle Albert, to ensure the Gu-naikurnai language remains alive and is passedon for generations to come.

“Lynnette has also supported Nicki with lots

of local information and resources.“Our team has also been extremely well sup-ported by Grattan and Lizzy Mullett. Throughyarns they have guided our journey and supported our initiative at school and in thecommunity.“Nicki, of course, has also been inspirational.We are extremely fortunate to have her work-ing at our school, sharing and teaching our stu-dents about the Koorie culture and language. “Her connectedness with our students isnothing short of unique and we know thislearning journey is one she is also taking tohelp her to understand and connect to her cul-ture more deeply.”

COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONSWith such an amazing win coming to theschool it warranted significant celebrations,and celebrate the school did.“It was an absolute delight to see almost 100 per cent of our families attend our KoorieCulture and Language Award CommunityCelebration on November 22,” Mrs Youngsaid.

“It is clearly evident our culture and lan-guage program is held with high regard and it was great to see everyone enjoying the celebrations.“As a school, everyone plays an importantrole in supporting this learning.”As the school celebrated it also took the op-portunity to look to the future.“We had a yarn in smaller groups and talkedabout what was next,” Mrs Young said.“Parents, students and community membershad some fabulous ideas.”The list of ideas developed during the yarn issignificant and varied. The team will meet be-fore the end of the year to use the ideas tomake plans for 2019.“If you are interested in working with thisteam and supporting our 2019 program andinitiatives please contact us at school,” MrsYoung said.“We have only started to scratch the surfaceas we build our understanding of culture andlanguage and we look forward to sharing thisjourney together for years to come.”

Grattan and Lizzy Mullett guided and supported theschool’s Koorie education initiatives. (PS)

The school’s Chris Blackwood and Nicky Hood were over the moon with the win. (PS)

Expanded Koorie education was an ideabrought about by former student, HaydenDeaves. (PS)

Bruthen Primary School teacher and local Gunaikurnai woman, Nicole Hood, Koorie edu-cational support officers, Bradley Kenny and Lynnette Solomon-Dent, and principal,Michelle Young, celebrated the school’s Outstanding Koorie Education win at the 2018Victorian Education Excellence Awards with a community gathering at the school recently.(PS)

Bruthen Primary School receives Outstanding Koorie Education AwardMany of you would have read about Grattan and Lizzy Mullett’s involvement in the Koorie education program at the Bruthen Primary School in the Bairnsdale Advertiser in early December last year. The program was considered so highly that the school received the Outstanding Koorie Education Award at the 2018 Victorian Education Excellence Awards.

Grattan and Lizzy guided and supported the Koorie education initiatives and worked with the school’s Koorie educational support officers to share their knowledge of culture and language with students. This fantastic initiative was the result of a conversation between school principal, Michelle Young and a former student. The principal wanted to know what would help make Bruthen Primary School even better; the response was for students to learn more about Koorie culture to build greater respect for each other. What a great program and congratulations to all involved.

* GLaWAC organises monthly cultural learning days for its staff and community members will be invited to specific events over the year.

6 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

Recognition and Settlement Agreement ReviewMany Elders and community contributed to the years of negotiation and consultation in order to achieve the Recognition and Settlement Agreement (RSA) with the State of Victoria in 2010. We thank all of our past, present and future leaders who will continue this important work on behalf of everyone.We will feature a full story of this journey for the next issue of GLaWAC News. The below information was presented at the GLaWAC AGM in November last year and highlights the key steps in the review process and when they will happen.

GUNAIKURNAI NATIVE TITLE• Traditional Owners of 1.33 million hectares of land (including

200 metres of offshore sea territory

• Aboriginal Title over 10 parks and reserves spanning around 46,000 hectares

WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED SO FAR THROUGH THE RSA PACKAGE?• LEGAL RECOGNITION of our connection to Country and our

rights as Traditional Owners (2010 Gunaikurnai Recognition and Settlement Package)

• ABORIGINAL TITLE over ten national parks and reserves, jointly managed with the State

• AGREEMENTS to use Crown land and waters for traditional purposes

• OPTION to buy four Crown Land allotments

• $10 MILLION invested in the Victorian Traditional Owners Trust

• $2 MILLION for GLaWAC to activate economic, cultural and other aspirations for members

• $2 MILLION (over four years) to help us train and develop our people, plan our future and make best use of the RSA Package.

• FIRST JOINT MANAGEMENT PLAN in Victoria – GKTOLMB, launched 2018

• JOINT MANAGEMENT RANGERS employed

We have achieved much but it is now time to review the 2010 Gunaikurnai Recognition and Settlement Package (RSA Package).

WHY IS THERE A REVIEW? • To find out if the Recognition and Settlement Package has

delivered what it set out to achieve for the Gunaikurnai and the State of Victoria

HOW WILL THE REVIEW HAPPEN?• An Independent Reviewer will be appointed early 2019

• Meetings and consultations with community, the corporation and Government agencies. Review relevant documents and report prepared for the Board (May-Oct)

• When the report is endorsed by the Board, it will be presented to the Victorian Attorney-General

WHAT WILL BE REVIEWED?• Natural Resource, Land Use Activity and Traditional Owner

Land Management Agreements

• Funding provided to date

• Possible grants of freehold title and Aboriginal title of Crown Land

• GLaWAC’s and GKTOLMB legislative support, structure and governance

• How well State Agencies and Local Governments have supported the RSA Package

Inform the Gunaikurnai of the review (GLaWAC AGM and GLaWAC News, Jalandook issue

Terms of Reference & Independent Reviewers for review agreed (February)

Independent Reviewer appointed (April)

Set up Advisory Panel - GLaWAC and Department of Justice and Regulation (February - May)

Conduct review with the Gunaikurnai and the State (June - September)

Report to GLaWAC Board with recommendations (October)

Keep members informed via regular GLaWAC communications (ongoing)

Approved Report presented to the Victorian Attorney-General (November)

Possible negotiations with State about changes to RSA Package

KEY STEPS IN THE RSA PACKAGE REVIEW

Gunaikurnai Native Title map

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 7

Cultural Hub programTHE Cultural Hub program supports GLaWAC’s operational activities through community engagement with government agencies, key stakeholder groups and education service providers. The Elders’ Council now has 16 members who provide GLaWAC with advice relating to cultural matters and community events. The Elders’ Council came together prior to the 2018 Annual General Meeting held at Forestec in November last year. Members of the Elders’ Council are acknowledged in the inside cover of this newsletter.

We have also established a Native Title Cultural Heritage subcommittee to provide advice to the GLaWAC Board on all cultural matters and make sure that we achieve the cultural objectives set out in the GLaWAC Corporate Plan 2017-2022. The subcommittee includes representatives from the Board and staff as well as community members and will meet at least twice a year.

Another initiative that the Cultural Hub team are working on is finalising an events calendar that will detail the various organisational and community events that will take place on country throughout the year. The events calendar will be available on the website at www.gunaikurnai.org and promoted through local and regional media as well as hard copies at the GLaWAC’s office at Forestec.

Since October last year, GLaWAC received 34 requests for Welcome to Country or smoking ceremonies that were delivered by staff or respected community members. Conducting Welcome to Country and acknowledging Gunaikurnai people as the traditional owners of the land provides a means for publicly recognising the prior and continued ownership of the land by Gunaikurnai people, and an important part of GLaWAC’s business.

In October last year, GLaWAC hosted an on Country tour with over 20 Certificate IV Cultural Heritage Management students from Latrobe University and took them to places of cultural significance, including a boat trip on the Gippsland Lakes.

Throughout the year, GLaWAC runs cultural awareness and education sessions with staff from government agencies and other partners to help raise the profile of GLaWAC and build a respectful and meaningful relationships and a greater understanding of the Gunaikurnai community and its people.

Most recently, cultural awareness sessions were held for staff from the Latrobe City Council and East Gippsland Water.

We understand the importance of our staff and community gaining a deeper understanding of culture. GLaWAC now supports monthly cultural learning days and will invite local community to as many as possible. Our most recent learning day was in November where GLaWAC staff hopped on a train

and travelled into Melbourne for a professional development day with guided talks and walks at key cultural institutions. We visited the Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia where we had a guided tour of the Indigenous art collection and the First Australians exhibition. We also went to the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Melbourne Museum and the last stop was a guided tour at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Federation Square.

Our Culture and Country

GLaWAC staff visiting the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

Roger Fenwick and Daniel Miller at NGV Australia.

BREAKING NEWS: Woorara Wanik Waring - Mountain pathway to the sea - Art Show GLaWAC is in the final stages of organising the first Gunaikurnai Art Show to be held at Forestec on Friday 22 March to Monday 29 April 2019. To help inspire you, GLaWAC is organising a bus trip to Mount Hotham on Wednesday 13 February as part of the monthly Cultural Learning Day series. Book your seat early! Watch out for updates in the local papers and on the website at www.gunaikurnai.org

For further information about GLaWAC’s Cultural Hub Program, contact Grattan Mullett, General Manager, Culture or Ruth Fitzclarence, Members and Elders Coordinator on 03 5152 5100.

Grattan Mullett welcoming visitors to Country.

Country tour with over 20 Certificate IV Cultural Heritage Management students from Latrobe University on a boat trip on the Gippsland Lakes.

8 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

Parks and Reserves

State Forest & Other Public Land

Joint managed park

3 6

4

4

3

6

5

5

2

1

Lake Tyers State Park, Bung Yarnda Camping and Access Strategy Project

1

2

Why are we completing the project

The goal of the strategy is to ensure that Lake Tyers State Park continues to be a place to enjoy camping, fishing, boating, walking and other activities in a natural setting, while significantly reducing potential impacts on the land, water and cultural heritage in the park.

AIMS• To protect cultural values of the park.

• To protect the environmental values of the park.

• To provide both the Gunaikurnai community and the broader community increased opportunities and facilities.

GLaWAC and Parks Victoria has spoken with community to develop this strategy. Conducting a number ofsessions to discuss what people would like to see in the park the following highlights the key changes proposed forthe park.

Proposed draft guiding principles for the project:

Principle 1: Indigenous prosperity

Principle 2: Two arms concept

Principle 3: Defined campsites

Principle 4: Boating, fishing and water-based recreation

Principle 5: Protect the foreshore

Principle 6: Information, education and enforcement

Engagement completed to date:

• Gunaikurnai and broader Aboriginal community engagement sessions held at local Aboriginal organisations in Morwell (x 2), Drouin, Orbost, Sale, Lake Tyers Trust (x 2) and Lakes Entrance

• A GLaWAC ranger attended all of these engagement sessions

• A meeting and site visits with GLaWAC staff and rangers

What’s the next steps?

• A draft strategy is currently being prepared and GLaWAC and Parks Victoria staff will be talking to the Gunaikurnai community again in the coming months to give everyone the opportunity to provide any further comments.

• The wider Victorian community will also be given the opportunity to comment on the Draft Camping and Access Strategy in March/April 2019 via the govern-ment's online consultation platform, Engage Victoria.

• The Lake Tyers State Park Camping and Access Strategy will be finalised by June 2019.

The Glasshouse Camping Area• Culturally sensitive site• Currently camping and Day Visitor Site• Cultural Values being impacted by use• Environmental Values being impacted by use• Reduce camping offer and improve facilities

Cherry Tree Day Visitor Site• Provide interpretive signage to support cultural

tours by local community• Increased ability access to cater for more• Continuing cultural site for gathering.• Manage access to allow for cultural gatherings

Burnt Bridge Day Visitor Site• Improve walking track access where possible and

investigate changing toilet location.• New information board

Long point and Susie Q• Very Popular Sites• Altered access arrangements• Create Car Park and walking access to long point.• Cultural and Environmental values being heavily

impacted.

Cameron's Arm No 2 Track• Important Cultural Site• Important Eastern Horseshoe Bat site• Proposal to make track Management Vehicle Only

(MVO)• Access to cave by Permit

Morgan's Landing• Cultural Values being impacted by use• Environmental values also being impacted• Altered access arrangements

“…Nark Abundhu, the Sea, was tired from playing with fish, rushing over rocks and rolling backwards and forwards on the sand. She searched the coast until she found a quiet place with tall, shady gum trees and soft earth. Here she wriggled about and made herself comfortable before going to sleep, Lake Tyers, Bung Yarnda, or ‘Big Water’, represents the resting place of Nark Abundhu.”2

Lake Tyers State Park is on the country of the Krauatungalung clan. The landforms, features and sites of significance and features in the Lake Tyers landscape represent stories fundamental to Gunaikurnai culture. Lake Tyers State Park is one of the ten parks and reserves jointly managed by GLaWAC on behalf of the Gunaikurnai people and the Victorian Government.

Parks Victoria has been tasked with developing a camping and access strategy that will provide future direction for the management of the park to cater for both visitors who use the park for camping, fishing, boating and kayaking, and Traditional Owners who want to minimise the impact of this visitation to the parks’ environmental and cultural values to the Gunaikurnai people.

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR?GLaWAC and Parks Victoria staff have been meeting with community members to discuss their views for the park and what they think the camping and access strategy should include.

• Meetings were also held with the Elders groups from the Lakes Tyers Aboriginal Trust and GEGAC. These meetings took place on Country and in two organisation’s offices.

• The community engagement has been positive, and the community is happy that they are being consulted before the camping and access strategy is drafted and finalised.

WHAT’S THE NEXT STEPS?• A draft strategy is currently being prepared and GLaWAC

and Parks Victoria staff will be talking to the Gunaikurnai community again in the coming months to give everyone the opportunity to provide any further comments.

• The wider Victorian community will also be given the opportunity to comment on the Draft Camping and Access Strategy in March/April 2019 via the government’s online consultation platform, Engage Victoria.

• The Lake Tyers State Park Camping and Access Strategy will be finalised by June 2019.

Lake Tyers Camping and Access Strategy update

Our Culture and Country

Above: Community consultation underway.

Right Uncle Billy Tregonning with Grattan Mullett and Matt Holland at Lake Tyers.

Bottom: Engagement map of Lake Tyers Camping and Access Strategy overview.

2 Gunaikurnai and Victorian Government Joint Management Plan, GKTOLMB, Sept 2018 pg 127

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 9

On CountryGLaWAC’s Joint Management and Natural Resource Management crew members have now all completed their Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management. This is a nationally recognised qualification and our staff now have industry tickets in the use of chemicals, operating a 4x4 vehicle and operating a cross cut chainsaw. Well done to everyone!

New Water CrewIN recognition of the cultural importance of water and waterways to the Gunaikurnai people, GLaWAC has created a Water Crew and appointed Uncle Lloyd Hood as the Water Crew Leader and Tim Paton as the Water Crew team member in December last year. Uncle Lloyd and Tim will be organising ways for the community to meet on country to talk about the values of water for the Gunaikurnai. All community members will have the opportunity to contribute to the sharing and recording that show this connection, and to help capture culture for future generations. In the next newsletter there will be an update from the Water Crew.

Right: Sunset over Lake King.

Looking after Gippsland LakesANDY Booth has also been appointed as GLaWAC’s Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee (GLCC) Project Coordinator. The Gippsland Lakes are on the Traditional Lands and Waters of the Gunaikurnai. The GLCC was set up by the Victorian Government with a specific focus on coordinating efforts to improve the environmental condition of the Gippsland Lakes. You can read about some of the work Andy has been doing with the GLCC at Secombe Landing below or visit the Love Our Lakes website at www.loveourlakes.net.au for lots of interesting information about the lakes and waterways, the habitat and wildlife.

There have been a number of other staff appointments that are detailed below. Congratulations to everyone on their appointment and we look forward to a great year ahead working together on Country.

THE role of this team is to fulfil GLaWAC’s legislative responsibilities to protect cultural heritage as the Registered Aboriginal Party. One of GLaWAC’s primary RAP responsibilities is the protection and preservation of ancestral remains. This will include the future repatriation of ancestral remains still held off country. Check out the new video featuring our RAP On-Country crew talkikng about the importance of cultural heritage on the website at www.gunaikurnai.org.

RAP STAFF NEWS• Bianca Baxter has been appointed as RAP Site Officer

Crew Leader. Bianca recently completed her Certificate IV in Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management at Latrobe University. Check out the great picture of Bianca in her graduation robes on page 4.

RAP PROJECTS• GLaWAC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with

Monash University in September 2018 that enables our staff and Gunaikurnai people to work with internationally-recognised archaeologists to further research, understand and protect cultural heritage. The first project undertaken was to dig a test pit in a cave on a rocky outcrop along the Mitchell River in November 2018. This was a great training opportunity for our RAP team to work alongside some extremely experienced archaeologists like Associate

Professor Bruno David, from Monash University’s Indigenous Studies Centre. Dating of the site has confirmed Aboriginal occupation for at least 28,000 years.

• The RAP team currently have 15 Cultural Heritage Management Plans underway across the settlement area with salvage works and repatriation being carried out at various sites including the Nungurner Walking Track, Mitchell River Walking Track, Stratford to Bairnsdale Princes Highway and the Tambo Upper School.

• GLaWAC is currently working with DELWP to develop of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Land Management Agreement (ACHLMA) that streamlines how we will work with our partners to manage cultural heritage. The purpose of the agreement is to provide clear guidelines that minimise harm to cultural heritage and make better use of both organisation’s resources.

• GLaWAC has undertaken a major piece of work with Rail Projects Victoria that involved a large assessment for a new railway bridge to be built over the Avon River at Stratford.

• Our RAP team are regularly called upon by our various partner agencies to provide cultural leadership and guidance on a wide range of issues, such as planning for projects on the Gippsland Lakes.

Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) Cultural Heritage Assessment Team update

Joint Management (JM) Team update

Natural Resource Management (NRM) Team updateTHE primary purpose of the NRM Team is to provide training, skills development and employment to Gunaikurnai people, and to generate income for GLaWAC on a fee-for-service basis.

NRM STAFF NEWS• Nigel Pearce has been appointed as NRM Manager and

Bronson Ritchie has been appointed NRM Crew Leader. Max Solomon has also joined the NRM team as a full time Crew Member.

NRM WORK• The NRM crew have started performing works with the

Gippsland Lakes Consultative Committee (GLCC). GLaWAC are leading works on the Outer Barrier and supporting Parks Victoria, East Gippsland CMA and West Gippsland CMA across other areas of this large project. Works include: site preparation and spot spraying; revegetation; predator control; and education and awareness.

• The NRM crew have planted 9000 native plants on Wellington Wetlands for Greening Australia and are preparing to plant 5400 native seedlings for the West Gippsland CMA along the Lower Mitchell River.

• The NRM have been mentoring the Earn While You Learn participants on Country.

• GLaWAC was successful in receiving Biodiversity funding of $250,000 through DELWP to protect totemic species around the Gippsland Lakes. This funding will continue to support predator control operations.

THE role of this team is to work in partnership with GLaWAC’s joint management partners to manage Country.

JM STAFF NEWS• Robbie Farnham has re-commenced with GLaWAC as the

JM Manager, Grattan Mullett Jr and Bradley Hood have been appointed as JM Crew Leaders. Doug Harrison has also been appointed as a JM Ranger.

• Russell Dow continues to work successfully as the first GLaWAC and Parks Victoria Joint Management Trainee Ranger. Russell works out of the Parks Victoria Traralgon Office with their staff as well as with GLaWAC crews on specific projects and training events.

JM PROJECTS• JM Crews continue to work to our Annual Works Plan,

completing tasks as a team, and working with staff from Parks Victoria and DELWP. Planning will soon start for the 2019/2020 works plan.

• JM Crews work to maintain and enhance all ten of the Jointly managed parks and reserves. Everyone is developing skills and expertise in many areas of Land Management, and often recognised by our joint management partners as leaders in land management practices.

NRM Crew working at The Lakes National Park

Andy Booth is GLaWAC’s Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee (GLCC) new Project Coordinator

10 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

THE land and waters around Seacombe Landing and McLennan Strait in East Gippsland hold important cultural values to the Gunaikurnai, and GLaWAC has been working with Wellington Shire Council to repair, strengthen and protect the habitat at Seacombe Landing. A total of 1600 indigenous trees and shrubs have been planted and tree guards placed around the larger plants to protect them from deer and rabbits. GLaWAC’s NRM Crew have been watering the plants weekly due to the dry season and making sure that the weeds are kept under control. A fence was also installed to protect the waterside vegetation from vehicles and foot traffic.

The next steps are to install bollards around the boat ramp to stop people parking there and compacting the soil. Interpretive signage will be designed and installed at the site to highlight the cultural importance of the land and waters around Seacombe Landing and McLennan Strait to the Gunaikurnai people.

The restoration work was funded by the Gippsland Lakes Co-ordinating Committee (GLCC) and is one of a number of projects that are occurring over the next two years to protect and enhance the significant vegetation and wildlife that exist in and around the Gippsland Lakes.

GLaWAC’s GLCC Project Coordinator, Andy Booth said the project has gone well thanks to the NRM Crew who had to fend off the mighty Seacombe Landing Mosquito population as they went about their work!

Andy Booth was appointed to the GLCC Project Coordinator

role in September 2017comes to GLaWAC with a wealth of environmental project experience in Gippsland as well as around Australia and his home country, Ireland.

“I truly understand the responsibility that is placed upon me taking on this role. The Gippsland Lakes are an integral part of the Gunaikurnai people and l am determined to protect the cultural heritage of the Gippsland Lakes and help make the lakes healthier.” Andy BoothThese funding commitments are due for completion at the end of June 2020. There is plenty of work to do in the meantime. The work will involve GLAWAC’s NRM and Cultural Heritage teams and our partners - the East Gippsland Catchment Authority, Parks Victoria, DELWP and Wellington Shire Council.

ONE of the interesting jobs that the JM Rangers do with staff from DELWP and Parks Victoria is to undertake a health check of koalas on Raymond Island. The rangers use a pole with a bat at the end of it to encourage the koalas to come down the trees, then they are gently placed in hessian sacks to be transported for a health check. After the koalas are given a clean bill of health, they are released back to their home on Raymond Island or relocated to another site when the island is over-populated.

Even Koalas need a health-check!

Seacombe Landing habitat restoration underway

Storm damage at Buchan Caves

For further information about GLaWAC’s On Country work, contact Daniel Miller, General Manager, On Country on 03 5152 5100.

Working with our partners to manage CountryGLaWAC continues to work with its joint management partners to deliver the annual works program. Highlights over recent months include:LAKE TYERS STATE PARK• Road maintenance works have been undertaken on Burnt

Bridge Road and Cherry Tree Track. Cameron Fleet (PV) and Grattan Mullett Jr (GLaWAC) gave a site induction to the DELWP Nowa Nowa crew who did the road work.

• Installation of BBQs and bollards at various sites by Matt Palmer (PV) and Bradley Hood (GLaWAC). The focus of the works is to provide improved visitor facilities and to protect place of significant environmental and cultural value.

BUCHAN CAVES RESERVE• Gunaikurnai Rangers attended Parks Victoria’s Cave Guide

training at the Reserve in December last year to speak with a group of cave guide trainees about the role of Gunaikurnai Rangers and what joint management means to them.

• Gunaikurnai Rangers continue to assist Buchan staff with the clean up after storm damage at Buchan in November last year.

THE LAKES NATIONAL PARK• Gunaikurnai Rangers and the NRM team worked together with

the Central Gippsland Parks Victoria team on a joint working bee over two days in late November last year. The working bee included an upgrade of the Emu Bight camping area and walking tracks in the park. The team camped overnight in the park giving an insight into what visitor’s experience when they stay in the campground and what improvements were needed to make their stay more enjoyable. Working alongside one another and camping out on country allowed the team to build relationships and learn different skills from one another.

Corey Jack planting trees at Seacombe Landing

On Country

Max Solomon and Shay Terrick worked with DELWP and Parks Victoria staff to get the Koala down the tree and safely in the crate

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 11

AFTER several months of planning and hard work finalising this landmark document, the Joint Management Plan was officially launched by the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, the Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio MP at the Knob Reserve in September 2018.The Gunaikurnai and Victorian Government Joint Management Plan is the first such plan in Victoria, and in many ways the Gunaikurnai are collectively leading and continually defining, what joint management is and what benefits can come from such a partnership.

The launch was an exciting and memorable day that was made possible by not only the hard work and dedication of our joint management partners, but also the many others who provided their services and support on the day. In particular I would like to acknowledge the dance groups that performed on the day, proudly coordinated and lead by Wayne Thorpe. Also, thank you to Rob Hudson, the MC for the launch, and the Gunaikurnai Rangers, RAP and NRM crews who spent the week before the launch preparing Knob Reserve and making sure everything ran smoothly on the day.

I would also like to extend my thanks to those who turned out to participate in the celebrations, especially our Elders whose determination and commitment was central to making this all possible for our community.

The partnership between the Gunaikurnai People and the Victorian Government to jointly manage ten parks and reserves in Gippsland represents an exciting new way to manage Gunaikurnai country and its important cultural and natural values. The partnership will also result in knowledge sharing and the development of employment, education and training opportunities. With the partnership comes the sharing of decisions, resources and skills and equal opportunity in all relationships and business.

Now that we have an approved Joint Management Plan, we are turning our focus to implementing the many strategies and actions contained within the plan. It is important that we continue to focus on maintaining and increasing the momentum we have made to date and continue to explore and promote the opportunities for Gunaikurnai people to be involved in cultural mapping, land management and the potential to build opportunities in business, including the exciting potential for establishing cultural tourism.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the GLaWAC Board and CEO for their continued support in helping us reach this milestone and acknowledge Geoff Hockings contribution and

departure from the Board in September. We also welcome on board our new GKTOLMB member, Doris Paton. We are looking forward to working with Aunty Doris and I am sure my fellow board members will be encouraged by the wealth of knowledge, experience and understanding that she will contribute as we turn our focus to implementing the Joint Management Plan.

GRATTAN MULLETT Chairperson Gunaikurnai Traditional Owner Land Management Board

The Joint Management Plan is available to view and download from the GKTOLMB website and if you have any questions contact a GKTOLMB staff member via:

Phone: 03 5150 3573 Email: info@gunaikurnai.com.au Website: www.gunaikurnai.com.au

Gunaikurnai and Victorian Government Joint Management Plan update

JM Launch – GKTOLMB members with Minister Lily D’Ambrosio L – R: John Mitchell (Deputy Chair), Katherine Mullett, Grattan Mullett (Chair), Damian Britnell (Executive Officer), Minister D’Ambrosio, Geoff Hocking, Lena Morris, Maryanne Atkinson, Glenys Watts and Janine Haddow.

Joint management work in action at The Lakes National Park.

Above: Joint Management Plan Launch, at the Knob Reserve

12 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

GLaWAC continues to work hard towards creating more opportunities for our staff and young people in our community to gain access to vocational training and education. Some highlights over the past six months include:A PILOT HOSPITALITY TRAINING COURSE was held in GLaWAC’s new compliant kitchen in July 2018 with ten participants. The course was a partnership between GLaWAC, Paynesville Neighbourhood Centre and Federation Training, and students were given the opportunity to learn about bush tucker and use edible ingredients in their cooking and at completion of the course,were awarded Safe Food Handling Certificates. Part of the course involved catering for a GLaWAC Board Meeting and a Bush Café was opened to staff to sample the fantastic menu and see the participants in action demonstrating their culinary and hospitality skills.

JOINT MANAGED RANGER TRAINEESHIP – Russell Dow has commenced as the Joint Management Trainee. Russell is based at Parks Victoria’s Traralgon office and attends training days at Forestec as well as works with GLaWAC’s locally-based Ranger Crews. Russell is already a third of the way through his Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management. Good job Russell!

EARN WHILE YOUR LEARN PROGRAM (EWYL) – GLaWAC joined forces with Latrobe City Council and Federation Training to deliver an EWYL Program with six participants who undertook two days paid practical work experience on Country with GLaWAC’s NRM, Joint Rangers and RAP crews. We Thank Joanne Brunt for her significant support of this program.

Kurt Dodd, Corinna Harrison, Damian Hood, Chris Mongta, Corey Mullett and Dereece Rodgers successfully completed the program and now have a number of accredited training units that would count towards a Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management should they decide to continue in this field. As a reward for their hard work and dedication throughout the EWYL Program, GLaWAC extended their two day’s paid work per week up until Christmas and will offer ongoing support in their employment endeavours.

Corinna Harrison currently works as part of the Maintenance Team at GEGAC and this is what she had to say about the Program:

“I like learning more about culture and like working outdoors, I get bored working indoors. I get a really good feeling when I work on my own country, a real welcoming feeling and it’s been eye-opening. You feel like you belong to the country because it’s your own country and it gives me a sense of pride. I am seeing cultural heritage places that I have never seen before and walking tracks that I have never been on before and I’m loving it. It gives me a good feeling when there are places that the boys aren’t allowed to go, as they can usually get to go everywhere but it makes me feel good that there are places only girls can go to.I would like to see more girls involved in working on country and more girls in management as well.”CEO’s note: This is something that GLaWAC wants too: more girls involved in working on country and more girls in management positions in Aboriginal Corporations. This is part of our People and Culture Strategy, and GLaWAC will continue to encourage and support diversity in our workforce.

LAKES ENTRANCE SECONDARY COLLEGE STUDENTS SPEND MORNING AT GLAWAC – in late November last year, GLaWAC hosted a group of seven students from Lakes Entrance Secondary College for an information session. Grattan Mullett Jnr, JM Ranger Crew Leader welcomed the students and their teachers to country and gave them an overview of GLaWAC’s operations and a tour of the facilities at Forestec. After watching the videos of our NAIDOC Week boat cruise and Grattan Mullett Snr, General Manager Culture talking about the history and core business of GLaWAC, the group spent time with NRM Mentor Geoff McHugh and JM Ranger, Shay Terrick and undertook some tree planting on the Forestec grounds. The students also had the opportunity to watch Nicky Moffatt and Paul Harrison from the RAP Cultural Assessment Team clean and catalogue some cultural artefacts.

Students were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation and given an information pack about GLaWAC to take home to share with their families and friends. This is the first educational visit GLaWAC has hosted and plans are in place to extend the invitation to other schools in the Native Title Settlement area over the coming year.

UNCLE LLOYD HOOD, WATER CREW TEAM LEADER“I was born on the Aboriginal Mission at Lake Tyres. In the early sixties, my family moved to Newborough. I went to school in Newborough until I was 14 then I started work.My father was the butcher at Lake Tyres, I learnt to slaughter and skin cattle, skills which proved valuable later on in life. I worked with my father at Moe abattoirs and continued to work in the meat industry for some 40 years. I was also a union delegate in the meat industry, supporting and helping workers.

I am a Koorie Court Elder in the Koorie County Court, do the Magistrates’ Court as well as the Children’s Court and have done for 10 years. I work three days per week for VACCA as cultural support worker in the residential units. On weekends I mentor young offenders completing community-based orders at Wulunggo Ngalu and provide Cultural Awareness talks and Welcome to Country for the Collingwood Women’s Football Club.

My brother Terry Hood was a driving force behind Native Title. I too was a member of the original Board that fought for Native Title; I gave my evidence at Knobb Reserve in front of Justice North. Several years later celebrations took place as Native Title was granted at Knobb Reserve in 2010. I also sat on the TOLMB Board for five years.

My role at GLaWAC as Water Crew Team Leader is to welcome and encourage community to share stories On Country of how they used the waterways: fishing, swimming, bathing and source of food. I look forward to developing and being part of a sustainable Water Crew team, leading change in youth to educate and encourage learning and living to culture. The rivers are important to us, seeing kids with their fishing rods, heading off to catch a feed tells me all is not lost.”

KYLA DI FIORE, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, CEO OFFICE“Raised in Melbourne I moved with my family to Lakes Entrance in 2012. Although having a love of the area from a young age, annual holidays over Christmas and Easter, living in the area is something else. The environment, the people, the values of a smaller community is so unlike the city and certainly more aligned with who I am and who we are as a family.I have two amazing kids Cooper and Grace, two great step kids Tahli and Lochie and a pretty okay husband, Eddie – rarely do I concede to the fact I think he’s awesome as the jovial fall back would drive me nutty. In my day I was sporty; I represented Australia playing softball in America when I was 16 and cycled every weekend. As a spectator I love basketball and muahthai kickboxing – I’m in awe of the physical and mental strength required for muahthai.

I spent most of my working career in the city with Sensis (White Pages) working in partnership with Telstra. I led the billing and service teams; driving customer focused solutions and worked in a project capacity developing teams and system upgrades. Since living in East Gippsland I’ve worked at GEGAC, Maddocks Gardens (aged care facility of Bairnsdale Regional Health Service) and now with GLaWAC. I feel privileged to be part of such a great team and I’m really enjoying the culture and positivity I feel coming to work each day.”

KAREN CAMPBELL, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION OFFICER“Hi. My name is Karen Campbell. I began my role at GLaWAC in November 2018 as Finance and Administration Officer. Before starting in this permanent role, I was contracted as a temp through GBS Recruitment to help out in finance for a few weeks.I was really excited about applying for the permanent role, as I was made to feel so welcome at GLaWAC and enjoyed working with the team. When finding out I was successful in gaining this role, I was SO happy!!One of the things I enjoy most while working at GLaWAC, is being included in the Cultural days. I find them very interesting and educational.

For most of my working life, I have worked in various positions throughout the Woolworths Group. Although I have worked in many different roles, I have only ever had the one Employer. This made going for an interview pretty daunting!!I thoroughly enjoy working here with the GLaWAC team and look forward to many happy working years ahead!”

ROBBIE FARNHAM, JOINT MANAGEMENT CREW MANAGER“I have been away working for GEGAC as the Team Leader of the Maintenance Crew for the last couple of months. I was successful for the new position as the Gunaikurnai Joint Management Crew Manager. It feels good to be back in the JM role. I think I can make a big difference and help support/mentor the GK rangers to build capacity and confidence within the team.I would like to thank all the GLaWAC Family who have welcomed me back and I can’t wait to get back into it and work together with Parks Victoria and GLaWAC’s Stakeholders.”

Our OrganisationIntroducing new staff

Vocational training and education success stories

Happy participants and trainers at GLaWAC’s Cafe

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 13

GLaWAC’s Organisational StructureThis is the current organisational structure as at January 2019. Some positions are still to be advertised and appointed. 

CEORoger Fenwick

GM, On CountryDaniel Miller

Chief Operating Officer

Marc Higgins

HR ManagerMardi Edwards

Employment Development

Co-ordFleur Hawke

Workplace Mentor

Geoff McHugh

Reception/Admin

Cathy Thomas (Temp)

NRM Crew LeadBronson Ritchie

NRM Crew Lead(Vacant)

JM Crew LeadGrattan

Mullett Jnr

JM Crew Lead

Bradley Hood

Water Crew

Tim Paton

Water crew

(vacant)

Women’s Cultural Advisor/educator

(new)

Men’s Cultural Advisor/educator

(new)

Assessment Technical SpecialistJo Freslov

Site Officer Crew Leader

Bianca Baxter

Cultural Heritage OfficerPaula

Martin

Cultural Heritage OfficerNicky

Moffatt

Business Management

(Casual)Vacant

Cultural Business

Development Co-ord

Ray Thomas

Finance AdminKaren Campbell

Business ManagerMaureen

Penwill

Policy & Program Manager

(new vacant )

NRM ManagerNigel Pearce

JM ManagerRobbie Farnham

RAP Manager Russell Mullet

Water Crew LeaderLloyd Hood

GM, CultureGrattan

Mullett Snr

Executive Assistant

Kyla Di Fiore

Strategic Comms Manager

Karen Raabe(contractor at present)

Gippsland Lakes Program Project

CoordinatorAndy Booth

Members & Elders

Engagement Co-ordinator

Ruth Fitzclarence

JM Crew Shay TerrickKobi Cook

Patrick MullettDoug Harrison

TraineeRussel Dow

Casual Site MonitorsPaul HarrisonSteve Hood

NRM Crew and Earn While You Learn Mick Farnham

Corey JackMax Solomon

Kealey RatzmannAshley HoodMark KennyJia Nelson

Earn While You Learn

Currently Not Aboriginal

Aboriginal person

Gunaikurnai current or priority

14 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

THEME WHAT DO WE WANT TO ACHIEVE? HOW ARE WE TRACKING? COMMENTS

OUR COMMUNITY

Celebrate our successes with our membership through our regular newsletter, media coverage and special events.

• A Strategic Communications and Engagement Plan will be developed in early 2019 that will guide the promotion of GLaWAC’s programs, initiatives and staff achievements.

• Recruitment of a new Strategic Communication Manager position will commence in January 2019.

Plan to set up a temporary Latrobe Valley office while finalising options for permanent site.

• Our temporary office has been established in Traralgon in partnership with West Gippsland CMA.

Provide increased communication through improved web and social media portals.

• We will seek your ideas through the Strategic Communications and Engagement Plan under development.

OUR CULTURE Increase involvement of community in our Native Title and cultural heritage (NTCH) sub-committee.

• We have commenced increased yarning with Elders and at community cultural days. We will continue to develop these opportunities.

• GLaWAC’s Board approved delegations register and the inclusion of Native Title support functions in the position descriptions of key staff.

Ensure the Elders Council meet at least twice per year and are also supported to assist the NTCH sub-committee to exchange information.

• This objective has been met. Elders will continue to be invited to be part of various sub-committees.

Ensure we continue our cultural training calendar for all staff. • This is part of GLaWAC’s Workforce Strategy and is now in place.

Support Gunaikurnai people and families to connect with culture and country through On Country events.

• Some events are included in Issue 28, Summer 2019 of GLaWAC News with more events under planning. We look forward to members’ ideas for future events.

OUR COUNTRY Implement the first stages of the new Joint Management Plan for our ten parks and reserves.

• The Gunaikurnai and Victorian Government Joint Management Plan (JMP) was released on 1 September 2018.

• A JMP Implementation Plan is being developed. It will include details such as allocation of responsibilities, timing, budget allocation, risk management and funding requirements, as well as an outcomes’ monitoring regime.

• GLaWAC’s JM Rangers have been delivering an annual works program in partnership with Parks Victoria, the Committee of Management for The Knob Reserve, DELWP and the GKTOLMB.

Develop a GLaWAC position regarding the TOLMB role and structure.

• Joint Board discussions have commenced and will continue as part of the RSA review.

Negotiate a revised Recognition and Settlement Agreement with the Victorian Government, including ownership of Forestec and surrounds.

• An update is provided in Issue 28, Summer 2019 of GLaWAC News. Further updates will be provided over the year.

Develop GLaWAC position statements on Cultural Awareness training, Cultural burning, Mining, Marine and Water.

• Recruitment for a new Policy and Program position will commence early in 2019. This role will assist community and the board in reaching policy decisions.

• A community meeting regarding Fingerboards mining will be conducted in late January 2019 and we will present the Cultural Heritage facts for the site at this meeting.

Investigate Land and Business Acquisition strategies. • Further work to be done and some negotiations underway. Further updates will be provided early in 2019.

OUR ORGANISATION

Commence implementing the new GLaWAC Workforce Strategy.

• Underway with new appointments made or in the process of appointed.

Effectively deliver on our core business and contracted requirements.

• Ongoing

Establish annual calendars and agendas for the board and all sub-committees.

• Responsibility of CEO and Executive Assistant. Ongoing.

Complete Director training and succession planning for the GLaWAC Board.

• Two new Directors were appointed at the 2018 AGM.

• Governance training to be completed in first half of 2019.

Advertise and grow scholarships and education support for community.

• A range of scholarships have been awarded to community members, following our assessment procedure. Recipients are required to report back to GLaWAC. We will advertise further scholarships during 2019. GLaWAC are sponsoring several young people to attend a conference, the Social and Emotional Wellbeing Forum, held in Cairns in Queensland during early 2019.

OUR ECONOMY Grow and consolidate partnerships with government and other service providers.

• GLaWAC has secured a range of formal partnerships which now support our operations and growth.

Commence operating the Forestec Café as both a training venue and to generate employment opportunities for local Gunaikurnai people.

• A draft Business Plan was presented to the CEO by participants of pilot Hospitality Training Course that GLaWAC ran from July - September 2018.

• The incoming Chief Operating Officer will progress this project with interested community members with the intention of opening the Café in 2019.

Focus on Cultural Hub business functions. • The new Cultural Business Development Coordinator (Ray Thomas) commences mid-January 2019 and will focus on driving this function more proactively.

How are we tracking with our Business Planning?This Business Plan report card provides members with an overview of how the organisation is tracking against the 2018-2019 Business Plan. The report card uses a popular project management method of rating, based on Red, Amber (orange) and Green colours used in a traffic light rating system. The Board identified five themes that represent the broad areas of focus that we will prioritise over the coming five years:

• Our community – a strong, happy, healthy mob

• Our culture – protecting and practicing our culture; a strong focus on learning

• Our country – the right to use, manage and control our resources; respect as Traditional Owners of our Country;healthy country

• Our organisation – the right to use, manage and control our resources

• Our economy – economic independence.

If you would like more detail about the status of any of GLaWAC’s projects, please contact the CEO, Roger Fenwick.

Not yet commenced

On track to be completed this year

Commenced with further work to occur

KEY

GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019 15

OUR ECONOMYA new lease has been finalised for the offices at 195-197 Macleod Street Bairnsdale. This will increase GLaWAC’s rental income by $66,000 per annum, which will be used to support community activities.

Snapshot of GLaWAC’s Financial StatusThese graphs form part of GLaWAC’s Annual Report 2017-2018 and provide a snapshot of the Corporation’s financial status for last financial year. The Annual Report is available on the website at www.gunaikurnai.org.

Auspiced Funding$25,895.99

Leasehold Improvements$131,615.22

Trade Receivables$224,741.19

Term Deposits$733,398.45

Motor Vehicles$341,113.44

PLUS Other Savings accounts$400

Copyright Logo GLaWAC$10,000

PLUS Trade Creditors $117.66

Plant & Equipment$124,665.38

Long Service Leave$18,625

Cash at Bank$3,667,366.27

Payroll Liabilities$169,801.27

Tax Payable$172,723.03

Funeral Fund$77,463.63

Community Benefit fund$134,163

Land & Buildings$1,842,555.91

RegisteredAboriginal Party$678,442 Profit from

Sale of Assets$8,976

Water GrantDELWP$260,000

VTOT Drawdown$300,000

Other Revenue$23,331

Insurance Claims$10,855

Administration$91,601

Cultural Hub$89,374

Interest$25,594

Government$1,539,072

Natural ResourceManagement$1,408,030

Depreciation$197,434

AdministrationExpenses$302,327

Operating Expenses$217,752

Contractors /Consultants$425,577

Governance & Meetings$85,642

Employee Benefits$2,119,162

Liabilities$598,789.58

Assets$7,075,855.86

Net Assets$6,477,066.28

Auspiced Funding$25,895.99

Leasehold Improvements$131,615.22

Trade Receivables$224,741.19

Term Deposits$733,398.45

Motor Vehicles$341,113.44

PLUS Other Savings accounts$400

Copyright Logo GLaWAC$10,000

PLUS Trade Creditors $117.66

Plant & Equipment$124,665.38

Long Service Leave$18,625

Cash at Bank$3,667,366.27

Payroll Liabilities$169,801.27

Tax Payable$172,723.03

Funeral Fund$77,463.63

Community Benefit fund$134,163

Land & Buildings$1,842,555.91

YEARLY BALANCE OF TOTAL EQUITY

WHAT WE RECEIVED = $4,435,275 WHAT WE SPENT = $3,347,894

OUR NET ASSETS = $6,477,066.28 PLUS - MONIES HELD IN TRUST

Settlement Trust Fund

$13,419,583

2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018

$298

,112

$1,5

14,2

08

$957

,691

$232

,648

$231

,231

$418

,722

$1,0

87,3

81

-$1,000,000

-$500,000

$0

$500,000

$1,000,000

$1,500,000

$2,000,000

$0

$1,000,000

$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

$6,000,000

$7,000,000

2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018

$2,9

15,6

60

$4,4

29,8

68

$5,3

87,6

00

$5,6

20,2

48

$5,1

58,4

54

$5,3

89,6

85

$6,4

77,0

66

WHAT WE OWE = $598,789

WHAT WE OWN = $7,075,855YEARLY PROFIT AND LOSS

16 GLaWAC News, Issue 28 Jalandook (Summer) 2019

ISSUE 28 JALANDOOK (SUMMER) EDITION 2019

GLaWAC News

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC)Under the guidance of the Board of Directors and Elders Council, GLaWAC is the Registered Aboriginal Party that represents the Gunaikurnai people and their aspirations for Native Title, cultural heritage, land, water and natural resource management.

GLaWAC News content disclaimerOpinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Corporation. We do not guarantee the accuracy or accept any responsibility for the statements or comments made by the contributors in articles submitted. GLaWAC reserves the right to amend, alter or delete any items, statements or articles that it feels is not in the best interest of the Corporation or its members.

This newsletter has been printed sustainably, using recycled paper, non-toxic inks and 100% solar power.

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal CorporationForestec, 27 Scriveners Road Kalimna West, Victoria, 3909 Phone: 03 5152 5100 Fax: 03 5152 1666 reception@glawac.com.au www.gunaikurnai.org

Image: Cert IV training