COMMUNITY GATHERS AT GANALILI CENTRE TO WATCH FMG VS YINDJIBARNDI CASE

BY ASAD KHAN

The screening of the Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) vs Yindjibarndi case at the Ganalili Centre in Ieramugadu will continue throughout the week, allowing community members to observe the proceedings as they unfold.

The case, which has drawn significant attention, has been an ongoing point of concern for many Yindjibarndi people, who are advocating for the protection of their land and cultural heritage.

Attendees at the screenings have expressed frustration over the long-running legal battle and its impact on their community.

Lyn Cheedy, a Yindjibarndi woman, spoke about the deeper issues at play in the dispute. "This has been going on for a long time," "The Yindjibarndi people have always been united in caring for our Country. We see ourselves as gardeners, looking after the land."

Ms Cheedy described concerns about the environmental and cultural impact of mining activities in the region, particularly regarding water sources.

"Water is the giver of life. It's more important than any diamond, iron, or gold. If you don’t have water, you don’t have life," she said.

"Trees need water, we need water, animals need water."

Lyn Cheedy on Yindjibarndi Country

She also highlighted the destruction of significant sites, noting that places where Yindjibarndi people once lived had been affected by industrial activity.

"There are caves where our people used to live long ago, and they’ve been desecrated. Just being in those places is significant,"

Despite the challenges, Ms Cheedy emphasised the importance of witnessing the court process, saying that coming together to watch the hearings had been a meaningful experience for the community.

"Today is special because it's a court hearing, and I love sitting with my people. It makes me happy when we are together," she said.

The case remains ongoing, and community members continue to gather at the Ganalili Centre to follow the proceedings.