WELCOME
to
YMDAC
At Yugul Mangi Development Aboriginal Corporation, we are dedicated to respecting our past and present, and working together as one mob. Our vision is to lead both ways, creating a safe, strong, vibrant, and sustainable community for future generations. Click here to learn more about our journey.
ABOUT US
Yugul Mangi Development Aboriginal Corporation (YMD) was established in 2008 after changes to the Local Government Act, which created the Roper Gulf Shire (now Roper Gulf Regional Council).
The Council handles basic services while YMD has the responsibility of being the main community reference group on all matters – working closely with other community reference groups in town. The latest version of our rule book can be found here
YMD promotes the growth of community owned enterprise and supports clan business development. It is our aim to build a sustainable viable local economy creating full employment, career pathways and an end to generational welfare dependence.
YMD represents the seven clans of South East Arnhem land. On the Northern side of the Roper, these lands extend from Blue Mud Bay across toward Bullman, down the Wilton River Valley to Roper River and out to the Gulf. On the Southern side of the river the lands extend from west of Buddawka to the Hodgson River and includes the Towns River and Limmen River systems and coastal areas between. This area includes the newly declared Limmen National Park and the Mara Land Trust.
These vast lands hold great potential for developing pastoral, tourism, land management, mining industries among others and in many ways have been a forgotten area of Australia.
Things are always changing, as evidenced by Western Desert Resources attempt at opening an iron ore mine on the Towns River, and the ever growing numbers of tourists driving the Savannah Way which runs through the heart of country. Over 20,000 vehicles use this route every year.
The community of Ngukurr as represented by Yugul Mangi Development with nearly 300 members is looking forward to an exciting future as the people engage in these growing opportunities.
Our Values
Focusing on our values and collective Yugul Mangi strengths will assist us to achieve our Vision:
Respecting Our Past & Preserving Our Culture
Preserving culture is vital as it ensures all actions, programs, and partnerships reflect our collective Yugul Mangi identity, history, and traditions.
Upholding cultural values strengthens community pride, guides our local decision-making, and safeguards cultural knowledge for future generations. It also builds trust and unity, ensuring development aligns with our cultural responsibilities and community aspirations.
Yugul Mangi "We Speak Together as One Mob"
We recognize that our greatest strength and successes are often built on working together as one mob.
Working together allows us to achieve more than we could individually, fostering creativity, new ideas, and shared
responsibility, where everyone contributes to achieving common goals.
Mutual Respect & Trust
Mutual respect and trust are important to Yugul Mangi because they honour the relationships between our clans, our Elders, and the Country that connects us. These values help us work together with one mind and one spirit, making decisions that protect our lands, waters and cultural responsibilities.
When we stand in trust and respect, our partnerships grow stronger and our future generations can walk forward with confidence on their own Country.
Open & Transparent Communication
We are committed to providing Board Members, Staff and the broader community with open, honest and timely communication that ensures that people are appropriately informed and can provide feedback and input on our major projects and activities.
Professionalism & Continuous Improvement
We believe in thinking creatively and exploring new ideas to improve the programs and services we deliver. By remaining open to change and looking for better ways of working, we can address challenges and find local solutions. Continuous improvement means that we will always look for ways to improve our approach, learn from our experience, and grow as a community-led organisation.