Key Takeaways:
- The Aboriginal community on truwana/Cape Barren Island in Bass Strait has been fighting for land return and autonomy for decades.
- In 2005, the island was finally returned to the community, and since then, the Cape Barren Aboriginal Association has been managing the island’s affairs.
- The community has made significant progress in self-governance, with control over roads, water, electricity, and housing.
- Education is highly valued on the island, with a school that offers programs from infancy to year 12, and a strong focus on community involvement and cultural heritage.
- The island’s Indigenous ranger groups, the pakana rangers and the truwana rangers, play a crucial role in land management and cultural burning.
Introduction to truwana/Cape Barren Island
Natalia Maynard’s carefree childhood on truwana/Cape Barren Island is a testament to the community’s hard-won battles for autonomy and self-governance. The island, located in Bass Strait, has a rich history and a strong sense of community. Natalia’s love for the island and its treasures is evident as she spends her days exploring the shoreline, collecting shells and rocks, and learning about the island’s unique culture. Her family’s story is intertwined with the island’s history, and her parents, Aaron and Kathryn, are actively involved in the island’s management and governance.
The Fight for Land Return
The journey to self-governance on truwana/Cape Barren Island was not easy. Denise Gardner, a prominent Aboriginal activist, played a key role in the fight for land return. In 2005, she sat in Tasmania’s Parliament House, awaiting the fate of her island home. The debate was intense, with arguments for and against land return. Ultimately, the decision was made to return the island to the Aboriginal community, and Denise’s reaction was one of joy and relief. The land return was a significant milestone in the community’s history, and it marked the beginning of a new era of self-governance.
A Matter of Control
The island’s history is complex, with a mix of European and Indigenous influences. The community has faced significant challenges, including the forced removal of children and the imposition of colonial rule. However, the community has always maintained a strong sense of identity and culture. Annette Peardon, a member of the Stolen Generations, is a testament to the community’s resilience. Her story is one of survival and determination, and she continues to advocate for the rights of Aboriginal people. The community’s fight for control over their own affairs has been long and difficult, but ultimately, they have achieved a significant degree of autonomy.
Running an Island
The Cape Barren Aboriginal Association is responsible for managing the island’s affairs, including roads, water, electricity, and housing. The association receives funding from state and federal governments and engages with the Flinders Council on some matters. The community has made significant progress in self-governance, with a strong focus on community involvement and cultural heritage. The island’s economy is small, but the community is resourceful and determined to maintain their way of life. The association’s chair, Aaron Maynard, is committed to ensuring that the island remains a vibrant and thriving community.
Island Education
Education is highly valued on the island, with a school that offers programs from infancy to year 12. The school is a testament to the community’s grit and determination, and it plays a critical role in preserving the island’s culture and heritage. The school’s principal, Nicole Jones, is committed to providing a high-quality education that is relevant to the community’s needs. The community is involved in the school, and the children are encouraged to learn about their culture and history. The island’s education system is unique, with a focus on community involvement and cultural heritage.
Songlines to truwana
The island’s Indigenous ranger groups, the pakana rangers and the truwana rangers, play a crucial role in land management and cultural burning. Buck Brown, a senior member of the truwana rangers, is passionate about preserving the island’s culture and heritage. He has fought for land return not only on truwana but also in Victoria, and he believes that formal recognition of Aboriginal ownership has made it easier to implement land management practices. The ranger groups employ locals, and Buck is committed to passing on his knowledge to younger colleagues.
Looking Forward
The community on truwana/Cape Barren Island is looking to the future, with a focus on ensuring that the island remains a vibrant and thriving community. Aaron Maynard, the association’s chair, is committed to providing sufficient infrastructure to support families returning home. The community is also focused on preserving their culture and heritage, and they are working to ensure that the younger generation is equipped to take on the challenges of the future. Natalia Maynard, with her love for the island and its treasures, is a symbol of the community’s hope and resilience. As she grows up, she will play a critical role in shaping the island’s future, and her story will be an important part of the island’s history.
