OUR HERITAGE
Cultural Significance
The Yinhawangka People have lived on and cared for our Country for time immemorial. Extensive scientific research has revealed over 50,000 years of habitation on our Country and amazingly throughout the height of the last Ice Age. From the rock shelters at Yirra to the Nyimili Ranges, Yinhawangka lands are rich with cultural, historical, and spiritual importance.
Economic Value
“Yinhawangka Country has been extensively mined since the 1960s, playing a vital role in supporting the prosperity of the Australian and Western Australian economies. Its vast iron ore deposits remain a significant driver of economic activity, attracting ongoing exploration and mining applications. While mining is expected to continue for decades, we seek to collaborate with proponents who are committed to finding a balance between the economic benefits of development and the preservation of our Country, culture, heritage, environment and natural resources.
Apical Ancestors
Our people trace their lineage to three key ancestral lines:
- Minatangunha
- Jarndunha
- Thurantajinha and Wilga
These ancestors remain central to our identity and connection to Country in our contemporary governance.
Agreements Modernisation
Modernisation of Agreements
The Agreements Modernisation Process or AMod is a series of formal discussions between the Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) and Rio Tinto.
These discussions are looking at ways in which the legal agreements and working relationship between Yinhawangka and Rio Tinto can be improved and updated to achieve better mutual outcomes in the future. YAC, in consultation with Yinhawangka People, is hoping to achieve stronger rights and mechanisms for Yinhawangka Peoples’ heritage, native title and community to flourish.
AMod has a series of newsletters which are confidential to Yinhawangka people. If you would like a copy of these confidential newsletters please email gcrelief.gore@gmail.com or chat to the Member Services team.