No Consultation on Cultural Heritage Decisions

Credit supplied: Djukun Country, 2024, Western Australia

Simpson Beach, a picturesque stretch on the Broome Peninsula, holds an irreplaceable place in the hearts and cultural heritage of the Djukun people, who have called it home for thousands of years. Recently, this tranquil beach has gained increased attention on social media, drawing more visitors and raising awareness of its natural beauty and cultural importance. However, a new government-funded sign has recently appeared on-site, marking the area with the name “Nagulan Julan.” This change, introduced by the Yawuru Native Title Holders Aboriginal Corporation (Yawuru PBC) in collaboration with government agencies, has been implemented without consultation with the Djukun Traditional Owners.

A Place Name Without Djukun Input

Credit supplied: Simpson Beach, 2024, Broome Western Australia

The sign, bearing the name “Nagulan Julan,” was erected without Djukun input or consultation. It is unclear how this name was chosen, yet it seems to have been recommended solely by the Yawuru PBC. “Nagulan” appears to be derived from the Djukun/Yawuru word “Nagula,” which means saltwater. Adding a seemingly arbitrary “n” at the end of “Nagula” has raised questions within the Djukun community. Furthermore, the term “Julan” at this stage may not have appeared in Yawuru language resources or publications prior to 2024, raising additional concerns about the authenticity of this term and its relevance to the land.

It’s crucial to ask why, after nearly 20 years since the Rubibi Native Title Determination in 2006, a new, unrecognised name has been placed on such a significant site without any engagement with the Djukun Nation. Simpson Beach is deeply intertwined with Djukun cultural identity, and the lack of consultation over its renaming represents a disregard for Djukun voices and cultural heritage significance.

Seeking Recognition and Consultation in Cultural Heritage Management

Upon contacting the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Parks and Wildlife Service office in Broome on 23rd October 2024. Our concerns as Djukun people were met with a referral back to the Yawuru PBC, the very body responsible for the decision that has led to our exclusion. This lack of response exemplifies an ongoing issue: Djukun Traditional Owners are often sidelined in critical decisions affecting Djukun Country, language, and cultural sites. This disregard by both government departments and the Yawuru PBC highlights a violation of the human rights of Djukun people, who are entitled to respect and inclusion in all decisions impacting our cultural heritage.

The Djukun Nation calls on the responsible agencies and Yawuru PBC to address the lack of consultation and ensure that all cultural heritage matters involving Djukun Country are managed with the full participation of Djukun Traditional Owners. Respect for cultural heritage must include the voices of the people who have nurtured these lands for generations.

Video credit: Ngikalikarra Media, view the video here