INDIGO Council last night agreed to help the Bangarang people obtain historical information from the council to support its application for joint land ownership with the Yorta Yorta nation.
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Traditional Yorta Yorta land lies on both sides of the Murray River.
In Victoria it extends from Cohuna to Albury-Wodonga.
The Yorta Yorta National Aboriginal Corporation successfully received Registered Aboriginal Party status on September 14, 2007.
It means the group has legislative powers to manage and protect their cultural heritage.
Bangarang Aboriginal Corporation secretary Vicki Atkinson said prior to Yorta Yorta receiving this status, country land on the Victorian side of Echuca and up to Beechworth was historically Bangarang land.
“We have met with the council and we are looking for as much information as possible to help support our application,” she said.
Cr Don Chambers acknowledged it was a sensitive issue for the Aboriginal community.
“We will provide them with information that may support their application,” Cr Chambers said.
“We do have information available in a number of records, including a Rutherglen book commissioned on behalf of the shire.
“How this information is utilised is up to the Aboriginal Heritage Council.”
Cr Chambers said there was a precedent of dual Registered Aboriginal Party status in Victoria.
“It’s a great step forward,” he said.
