The ten properties handed over were created through a subdivision in the Daintree Lowland Rainforest that occurred in 1982. They total 25.9 hectares and are undeveloped rainforest.
Through the partnership, Rainforest 4 Foundation has purchased 21 at-risk rainforest properties in the past two-and-a-half years. Eastern Kuku Yalanji woman and chair of Jabalbina Yalanji Corporation Michelle Friday-Mooka said the partnership was unique in Australia. “We are the only formalised, non-government program which purchases land for conservation to be owned and managed by its Traditional Owners,” she said.

Daintree population must be maintained

While it all sounds noble and the right thing to do, it does pose a problem for the Daintree’s future for tourism and those who work in the Rainforest and provide education and medical help. Mayor Michael Kerr told Newsport he fully supports groups wanting to rehabilitate non purposed land BUT “I am concerned when I see blocks that could be residential being taken way, because that reduces the possibility of having a sustainable group of residents who would use things like the Medical Centre or School, because without a decent population over the other side of the river those services would cease” he said. Mayor Kerr said it’s imperative that residential properties be available north of the river “I’m worried when they’re taking blocks away that have been deemed residential because what’s there at the moment is pretty well what’s required for a sustainable residency over there”.