February 5, 2026
Cherbourg councillors and the Wakka Wakka Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (WWNTAC) have reaffirmed their commitment to working together in a respectful and culturally grounded partnership.
Mayor Bruce Simpson, councillors and CEO Chatur Zala met with WWNTAC Board members, including chair Sam Murray, in Cherbourg on Wednesday.
They discussed the complex responsibilities held by both organisations, and set a pathway forward to achieve long-term outcomes for community.
Mayor Simpson said the discussion was an important step in strengthening relationships built on trust, honesty and shared purpose.
“This meeting wasn’t about projects or paperwork; it was about people, respect and doing things the right way,” he said.
“Cherbourg is home to many tribes, many stories and many responsibilities. Council has a duty to govern fairly and transparently for the whole community, and that work is strongest when it walks alongside our Traditional Owners.”
Mr Murray said the meeting reflected a shared desire to move forward together with clarity and vision, while honouring the deep cultural responsibilities carried by Wakka Wakka people.
“This isn’t about what benefits us today,” Mr Murray said. “It’s about what we leave behind for our grandchildren — something they can pick up and carry forward with pride.”
Mr Murray emphasised that meaningful progress requires courage, reflection and a willingness to do things differently.
“You can’t keep doing the same thing over and over and expect a different result,” he said.
“Without vision, you’re stuck. This meeting was about lifting our eyes, being honest with each other and committing to a better way of working together.”
Both parties acknowledged Cherbourg’s unique history — a place shaped by dispossession, relocation and resilience — and the reality that today’s community is built on many Nations living together on Wakka Wakka country.
Council and WWNTAC will work toward a formal Memorandum of Understanding and continue discussions that support future agreements, including an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) which is critical to enabling housing and infrastructure development.
