An open letter to the Australian Community from the Senior Traditional owner of Jabiluka Yvonne Margarula

Energy Resources Australia Inc (ERA) want to open a third uranium mine in the World Heritage Area Kakadu National Park. ERA recently commenced minimng on their second mine in the Park, known as Ore Body #3

My family and I are opposed to mining at Jabiluka.

I am the Senior Traditional Owner belonging to the Mirrar Gunjehmi homelands. It is a responsibility handed to me by my father upon his death. With the status comes a very important responsibility to carefully consider the future for Aboriginal people and country in the area when making decisions. I take my responsibility very seriously.

My father was forced to sign the Ranger agreement in 1975. At that time our people were told that it was in the national interest to mine uranium. Our people were given no choice for the Jabniluka agreement of 1982. We may be given no choice agan.

Is it in the national interest to open a third mine in the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park?

We live the environmental damage and negative social impact from mining development/ We believe that uranium mining has negative consequences for all Australians.

Kakadu National Park is recognised throughout the world for its cultural and natural universal values. This is under threat from uranium mining. All Australians will loose if mining goes ahead in the Park.

The Australian Government has to take responsibility for World Heritage Listings seriously. We believe that the Government has an obligation to protect the Park from further uranium mining, particularly in this fragile environment.

We ask you to support us. Make your opinions known to the Federal Government about the proposed Jabiluka mine. Help us maintain our heritage and preserve Kakadu National Park for the enjoyment of all Australians.

Created: Saturday, November 16, 1996 Updated: Saturday, November 16, 1996