Deriah Aboriginal Area joint management program

Deriah Aboriginal Area is on the lands of the Gamilaroi, Kamilaroi, Gamilaraay or Gomeroi Nation and represents the traditional custodians enduring connection, belonging and cultural ownership of Country.

On the Nandewar Range near Mount Kaputar National Park, this expansive 2233ha reserve offers a unique insight into traditions and culture with sculpture and interpretive signage.

Joint management of Country

In January 2012, NPWS and the Deriah Aboriginal Area Joint Management Committee (DAAJMC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the joint management of Deriah Aboriginal Area. The DAAJMC includes local Aboriginal Custodians and Elders of the Gamilaroi, Kamilaroi, Gamilaraay or Gomeroi language nation.

The MoU provides a respectful approach for culturally appropriate, continued and meaningful collaboration between the DAAJMC and NPWS. Joint management aims to:

• facilitate education
• renew community knowledge
• foster ownership and responsibility
• empower the Gamilaroi, Kamilaroi, Gamilaraay or Gomeroi People.

The area’s statement of management intent will guide the management of Deriah Aboriginal Area until a plan of management has been prepared.

Program benefits

Traditional custodians have kept a strong and passionate connection to Country, so being able to care for Country through joint management helps to protect Gamilaroi, Kamilaroi, Gamilaraay or Gomeroi culture and identity.

Joint management also contributes to positive outcomes in the area, including the:

• identification and conservation of Aboriginal cultural sites
• creation of interpretive signage about Aboriginal culture that the local community can access and learn from
• education of school groups and visitors via organised cultural talks.

Learn more about Deriah Aboriginal Area.