After a decades-long battle for recognition, Ngintait, Latji Latji and Nyeri Nyeri peoples in north-west Victoria have been awarded Native Title in a historical first for the state.
The Federal Court awarded the groups' determination on-Country on Friday, which includes the first example of exclusive rights in Victoria's history.
First People of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation will manage the Native Title rights as prescribed body corporate.
The claim was filed in October 2015, following previous attempts for recognition dating back more than 20 years and even longer in the form of demands for land rights, Nyeri Nyeri Elder Wendy Brahbam said.
Friday's determination is the acknowledgment of their old people's fight and rights always held by those future generations, applicant members Latji Latji man Shane Jones Snr, Ngintait man Timothy Johnson and Aunty Brabham said.
Through the 10 year process, the three Traditional Owner groups were involved in mediations.
"We all come together, and we all become stronger…we've got to be one big family," Mr Jones told National Indigenous Times.
Justice Elizabeth Bennett delivered the judgement at Kings Billabong Park beside the Murray River just outside of Mildura in front of community members.
It was declared the orders were about recognition of what "has always been".
A chorus of cheers and applause met Justice Bennett's closing comment: "You have your Native Title."
The determination also recognises generations of care for, and connection to the lands within the claim boundaries.
"As a Latji Latji man, I am proud that our rights and interests are formally recognised on the lands where my ancestors lived. Alongside all First Peoples of the Millewa-Mallee, including the Ngintait and Nyeri Nyeri peoples, we continue to live our culture," Mr Jones said.
"With Native Title, our present and future generations can continue the legacy of all our Elders and emerging Elders."
Aunty Brahbam told National Indigenous Times it was particularly important for children to be present on the day, "because they are actually going to be the ones who are implementing a lot of the outcomes of this determination".
It's the first determination in Victoria since the Eastern Maar were handed 8,578 square kilometres spanning across the state's south in 2023, and just the second in more than a decade.
Ngintait, Latji Latji and Nyeri Nyeri now have Native Title recognised across thousands of kilometres stretching the length of the Murray, west to the South Australian border from Iraak, south to Hattah and west again to the edge of the state.
Exclusive Native Title Rights, meaning authority for holders to exercise these rights "to the exclusion of all others", apply to a part of the area.
It's the first example of its kind in Victoria.
"The First Peoples of the Millewa-Mallee and their ancestors have always been connected to their Country by their traditional laws and customs, despite the devastating impacts of colonisation," First Nations Legal and Research Services senior lawyer Stacey Little said.
"This determination is a testament to their strength and persistence and reinforces their right to be involved in decision-making about Country."
Children's dance groups, performance and a shared meal followed the judgement, and speeches from Traditional Owners.
"We call for this claim to be recognised in full, not as a favour, but as long overdue truth", those in attendance were told.\
"In our hearts, in our veins and in our stance - It's our time, our story, our land."
First People of the Millewa Mallee Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Chris Marshall said, as managers "we're proud to now serve our role in protecting" what are "enduring rights and interests".
It was a "defining moment" for Timothy Johnson, empowering Traditional Owners to care for the land "our ancestors walked, hunted and held ceremonies on" while also presenting job opportunities for the community.
Community members told National Indigenous Times everyone invited and "meant to be here" was in attendance on the day.
