Visitation protocol
Anybody who wants to travel off gazetted roads and outside National Park boundaries onto traditional country must gain permission from Traditional Owners.
The Lockhart River peoples’ traditional land spans from Captain Billy Landing to Breakfast Creek and inland to the mountains.
The major traditional language groups from north to south are:
• Wuthathi from Captain Billy Landing to Olive River
• Kuuku Ya’u from Olive River to Nyllichii (creek south of Cape Griffith)
• Kanthanumpu from Nyllichii to Lockhart River mouth
• Uutaalnganu from Lockhart River mouth to Stony Creek
• Umpila from Stony Creek to north of Friendly Point to Breakfast Creek
• Kaanju from southern inland of Stony Creek and north to Batavia.
Many people recognise the cultural, environmental and scientific significance of the region and come to learn more. If you are a researcher, scientist, natural resource manager, anthropologist or member of the academic community with an interest or desire to visit, there are important cultural protocols which must be observed including gaining permission to ‘go on country’. Traditional Owners will make sure this is done the right way.
It is not only a courtesy to tell someone before you enter their land, it is also a legal requirement. Visitors who do not ask permission may be asked to leave and not return.
By making contact with Traditional Owners, you can also learn more about the special values of this place which will enhance your understanding and experience of the area.
Kawadji Kanidji land and sea rangers actively patrol traditional country and can assist you in identifying and making contact with the relevant Traditional Owners.
To contact our cultural liaison officer, please phone 07 4060 7000. The Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council can also assist with enquiries relating to visiting our community on 07 4060 7144.