Preserving Paradise – handback of Daintree Rainforest Land

Issued: 22 June 2026

More than 28 hectares of the iconic Daintree Rainforest have been returned under the Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal land (CYPAL) initiative. The land will be held by the Eastern Kuku Yalanji (EKY) Traditional Owners.

The handback contributes to the protection of one of the world’s most biodiverse regions and supports ongoing land management in the area.

The Daintree Rainforest is within an iconic World Heritage site, with lush lowland rainforest home to an extraordinary range of rare, threatened, and endemic species.

The land transfer ensures the permanent protection of these ecosystems and will be included as part of Daintree National Park (CYPAL).

The land will be granted to the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation on behalf of the EKY under a unique arrangement that combines Aboriginal ownership with national park tenure.

Cape York Peninsula Tenure Resolution Program Director, Rachel Small said the EKY would lead the management of the land, blending Traditional Knowledge with modern conservation practices.

“The return of Country will further empower the EKY to protect their culture, strengthen their connection to the land and share their heritage with visitors through Indigenous-led tourism initiatives,” Ms Small said.

Jabalbina Chairwoman Laurel Denman welcomed the transfer and said it would be returned to traditional Yalanji management.

“This addition to the jointly managed CYPAL allows us to protect our culture, and it’s a testament to the success of our partnership with Gondwana Rainforest Trust and the Queensland Government,” Ms Denman said.

“The new Bamanga Muruku Visitor Centre at Cape Tribulation is already boosting tourism in the area and providing a platform for the EKY to share their rich cultural heritage with the world.”

Gondwana Rainforest Trust CEO Richard Christian said the Trust played a pivotal role in acquiring the land, which exemplified the effectiveness of the 'Pathway to Protection' model.

“Through private fundraising and collaboration with the Eastern Kuku Yalanji and the Queensland Government, we’ve secured the highest level of statutory protection for this critically important rainforest habitat,” Mr Christian said.

The Wet Tropics Management Authority Executive Director Scott Buchanan said WTMA praised the transfer of land as a step forward in sustainable land management.

“Collaborating with Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples is central to our work in protecting the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area,” Mr Buchanan said.

“This handback supports the EKY’s aspirations for greater control over their Country, ensuring its long-term protection through the integration of Traditional Knowledge and Western science.”