By Lauren Mills
The first community consultation for the proposed Bellinger Valley Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) has been hailed as a resounding success, with residents, Traditional Owners, and community organisations turning out in strong numbers at Mylestom on 15th October.
Led by Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation (YAC), the Mylestom event marked the beginning of a collaborative journey to protect Country, restore biodiversity, and embed cultural governance principles across the Bellingen Shire. Attendees described the evening as “inspiring” and “a powerful step toward walking together for Country.”
The Mylestom community consultation featured cultural presentations, open discussions, and expert insights from across environmental, cultural, and scientific fields. The free family-friendly event had free community BBQ, giving locals a chance to share stories and ideas in a relaxed and inclusive setting. Local community organisation stalls added to the event’s success, offering valuable information and engagement opportunities for attendees across a range of environmental and cultural programs and services. The Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation stall displayed large maps outlining the boundaries of the proposed Indigenous Protected Area to help community members visualise the proposed Indigenous Protected Area.
As part of the consultation process, Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation also launched a community survey designed to gather broader feedback from across the region. The survey invites participants to share their thoughts, priorities, and aspirations for the future Indigenous Protected Area. It is available online via QR code and in paper-based copies at each community event, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to contribute in the way that suits them best.
“The survey gives everyone—whether they can attend in person or not—an opportunity to have their say,” said Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation CEO Dean Kelly. “This process is about listening deeply and ensuring that community voices are reflected in every stage of planning.”
The survey will remain open in the coming months and will also be available for attendees to complete at the Urunga community consultation on Wednesday, 12 November 2025.
Following the success of the Mylestom consultation, organisers are now preparing for the Urunga event and encouraging Urunga, Raleigh and Yellow Rock locals to come along, listen, and share their perspectives.
“Every voice matters,” said Dean Kelly. “Whether you’re a Traditional Owner, a resident, or someone who simply loves this Country, your input will help shape how we care for the Bellinger Valley for generations to come.”
The Urunga event will again feature guest speakers, open discussion, and a free BBQ.
All are welcome to attend, but organisers ask that participants join the session closest to where they live to ensure the feedback reflects local perspectives.
To register, visit https://www.trybooking.com/DFZFK or contact Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation directly at data@yac.org.au.
Together, we can continue the conversation—walking forward in partnership to protect, restore, and honour the Bellinger Valley.
About Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation
Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Gumbaynggirr people. The organisation blends ancient cultural knowledge with contemporary methods to ensure the ongoing vitality of Gumbaynggirr culture. Through collaboration with elders, community, and experts, YAC works to safeguard language, art, sacred sites, and environmental values—creating a sustainable future for cultural and ecological wellbeing.
