The Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation have been as appointed Crown Land managers for parts of Yamba’s Pilot Hill reserve including two heritage listed cottages.

Celebrated at a special ceremony at Pilot Hill during NAIDOC week, the appointment marks a significant step forward in supporting the local Aboriginal community’s aspirations for the culturally significant area.

Federal Court determinations in 2015 and 2017 recognised the Yaegl people’s native title rights over areas of land and sea on the NSW north coast, including Pilot Hill.

The Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (YTOAC) officially took over as Crown land manager of the cottages and around 6.6 hectares of surrounding land on Pilot Hill from the NSW government owned Reflections Holidays.

The government said the YTOAC plan to use one of the cottages as a base for its land management and contracting teams and continue holiday letting the second cottage.

This will enable the YTOAC to strengthen cultural, social, and economic outcomes for the community while exploring other cultural tourism opportunities.

Pilot Hill reserve is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering breathtaking views, walking trails, and opportunities to learn about the area’s rich Aboriginal history and traditions.

YTOAC CEO Bill Walker said it was a special outcome involving a culturally significant area.

“Managing this land will allow us to protect and preserve our cultural heritage while also creating pathways for social and economic development and community empowerment and self-determination,” he said.

“When Matthew Flinders arrived at Yamba in 1799, he saw our people doing their daily chores and how strong our buildings were on what is now known as Pilot Hill.

“European history will be included in what we do there.

“We are committed to ensuring that the land is cared for in a way that respects its cultural significance and benefits future generations, not only for the Yaegl people but for everyone who uses and visits Country.”

NSW Minister for Lands and Property, Steve Kamper congratulated the YTOAC.

“This transfer of Crown land management acknowledges the Yaegl people’s enduring connection to their Country and signifies Crown Lands’ focus on working with Aboriginal landowners and native title holders on co-management strategies to unlock multiple benefits from land,” he said.

“The NSW Government is proud to support the Yaegl people in continuing their cultural practices, sharing their stories and passing down their traditions to future generations.”

This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 6 August 2025.