Eastern Maar facts for kids
The Eastern Maar people are a group of Aboriginal Australian peoples. Their traditional lands are in the south-western part of Victoria, Australia. The name "Maar" means "the people". It is used by several Aboriginal Victorian groups who share a connection to this area.
Contents
Who are the Eastern Maar People?
The Eastern Maar people are made up of different Aboriginal groups. These groups identify as Maar. They include:
- Eastern Gunditjmara
- Tjap Wurrung
- Peek Whurrong
- Kirrae Whurrung
- Kuurn Kopan Noot
- Yarro waetch (also known as the Tooram Tribe)
What is Native Title?
Native title is a special legal right. It recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have traditional rights and interests in land and waters. These rights come from their traditional laws and customs.
The Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC)
The Eastern Maar people are officially represented by the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC). EMAC is a special organisation called a Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC). Their job is to manage and protect the native title rights and interests of the Eastern Maar people.
Traditional Lands and Agreements
In July 2011, the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara peoples were recognised as the native title holders for a large area in south-west Victoria. This area stretches between the Shaw and Eumeralla Rivers. It goes from Yambuk in the south to beyond Lake Linlithgow in the north.
EMAC is also working with the Victorian Government. They are negotiating a "Recognition and Settlement Agreement". This agreement covers an area around Stawell, south-west of Horsham and Ararat roads. The exact boundaries of this agreement are still being discussed.
