Port Keats (also known as Thamarrurr), is the term widely used to describe the region that our representatives will speak about. The region is defined by linkages through land ownership and estates, kinship, ceremony, trade obligations, language and other means. The Port Keats region covers an area of 3,200 square kilometres, includes the estates of twenty clan groups, and has ten different languages and sub-dialect. The region is in the Northern Territory and is now formally recognised as a local government entity in the broader Australian context.

Our presentation will be about where our people have come from, what our culture is today and their dreams for the future. The influence of other cultures and religion upon our way of life is examined, particularly how the Port Keats people have responded and continue to respond to such contact.

We face many challenges including the need to develop a strong economic, social and political base. The foundations have been laid by the creation of the Thamarrurr regional governance structure that is founded on alliances and relationships that were nurtured by our ancestors.

We wish to develop a future for our young people that equals the opportunities available to other Australians. These young people are holders of our society’s destin.