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NQPHN acknowledges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’s health and wellbeing requires a holistic approach that includes physical, social, emotional, cultural, and spiritual aspects.
NQPHN values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders connection to Country, including ties with culture and kin to support the promotion and advancement of good health and wellbeing in life, family, and community.
There are many different clans located within the NQPHN region, all with their own rich culture and customs. NQPHN is committed to working with the Traditional Custodians within our region to advance reconciliation, and assist Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders to live happier, healthier, longer lives.
See below to find out more about the Traditional Custodians within the NQPHN region.
The five First Nations groups in the Mackay/Pioneer Valley region are:
- Yuwibara (Mackay Township area and north of Pioneer River)
- Kungalburra (Bakers Creek to Sarina area)
- Toolginburra (Eton Range area)
- Googaburra (Islands)
- Gurraburra (Mirani and Netherdale—Upper Pioneer Valley area).
Yuwi Country is home to the First Nations People known as the Yuwi people (Yuwibara). Yuwi Country is defined by its natural boundaries from Cape Palmerston in the South to the O’Connell River in the north, and the foothills of the Sarina, Clark, Eton, and Eungella Ranges to the west and east, encompassing the waterways between the north and south land boundaries.
During white settlement in the early 1860s, the immediate city area was named Port Mackay. This area, known as Yuwibara Country to traditional descendants, is now referred to as Mackay.
Apical ancestry criteria confirms Yuwi peoples' connection to country through historical family stories, kinship, and language, as well as sharing commonalities of time and place with those of the same family, kin, and group. Importantly, clan groups are identified in this area through family connections.
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