A further 167,400 hectares of Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park has been handed back to the Waanyi People.

The Waanyi Native Title Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC has agreed to lease the land back to the Queensland government, building on Queensland's first successful lease-back of national park land, formalised in 2023.

The handback is the second phase of a staged approach to return the entirety of Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park to the Waanyi People. More than 247,000 hectares has now been handed back under the partnership between the Queensland Government and the Waanyi People.

The government said the park will be managed and preserved through the ongoing partnership.

The park will be rededicated as Boodjamulla National Park (Aboriginal land) after the transfer of the Aboriginal land title deed.

The handback event was held in Cairns on 19 November where Waanyi representatives of the RNTBC formally signed the national park lease and accepted the Aboriginal land title deed at the event.

Executive Director of Partnerships, Karrell Ross, said the handback recognised the cultural and historical importance of Boodjamulla to the Waanyi People.

Ms Ross described the handback as an outcome of the government's approach to reconciliation and partnership with Traditional Owners.

"This historic hand back is a testament to the Queensland government's commitment to reconciliation and the recognition of our Traditional Owners," Ms Ross said.

"Boodjamulla National Park is a place of spiritual connection, and we are proud to work alongside the Waanyi People to ensure its preservation for future generations.

"This partnership demonstrates how we can work together to protect our natural and cultural heritage while ensuring ongoing public access to this remarkable part of Queensland."

Ms Ross noted the beauty of the landscape and it's impact on tourism.

"It attracts thousands of visitors annually, and is on the bucket list of national and international tourists seeking natural and cultural experiences," Ms Ross said.

"With harsh, breathtaking sandstone gorges, jewel-toned green waters of the Lawn Hill Gorge and stunning walking tracks, Boodjamulla National Park is one of Queensland's most popular locations."

The Queensland government and the Waanyi RNTBC entered an Indigenous Land Use Agreement in 2023 and the agreement formally acknowledges the rights of the Waanyi People.

The agreement also ensures ongoing public access to the park.

The Waanyi People and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service are set to jointly manage the park moving forward.

National Indigenous Times contacted Waanyi Native Title Aboriginal Corporation for further comment.