March 2023 marks the 25th anniversary of the historic Jabiluka blockade. In 1998, led by Mirarr Senior Traditional Owner Yvonne Margarula, an unprecedented coalition of groups and activists from around Australia came together to stop the proposed Jabiluka uranium mine.
As you know, the Jabiluka uranium deposit is surrounded by the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park – on the lands of the Mirarr people. Throughout the campaign to stop this deposit from being developed, over 5000 people took part in non-violent direct action at the blockade with more than 500 arrested.
Combined with diverse national and international legal actions, alliance building, corporate campaigning and more, the sustained resistance eventually forced the mining company to enter into an agreement with Mirarr that Jabiluka could not be developed without specific Traditional Owner consent.
This was a watershed moment for Aboriginal rights and the environment movement in Australia.
Thanks to these collective efforts, Jabiluka’s uranium remains in the ground today. And we invite you to celebrate this with us.
Please join Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation, Environment Centre NT and the Australian Conservation Foundation for this 25th anniversary event.
Where: Museum and Art Gallery NT Theatrette
When: Friday 31st March 5.30-8.30pm
Catch up with blockade activists, watch unique footage from the time and hear about current opposition and concerns around uranium mining. We will also look at next steps in the rehabilitation of the former Ranger mine and the transition to a post-mining regional economy.
We are also excited to launch a new online exhibition created by Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation and the Australian Conservation Foundation marking the end of uranium mining in Kakadu.
Ps. If you were part of the Jabiluka campaign and have something to contribute to either the March 31st anniversary event or the online exhibition – e.g. photos or memorabilia - please reply to [email protected]
RSVP below (or opposite if you are viewing this from a desktop).
For our interstate friends, please register here to join us online on the night, as the event will be livestreamed.
