A brighter future for Stage II As the year draws to a close the future of the East Kimberley is looking surprisingly brighter. Many feel that the sorting out of Native Title is the best thing to have happened in recent times. As in any mediated dispute there are winners and losers on both sides, but on this occasion the future definitely looks better for just about all involved. The terms of the agreement allow for substantial subdivision of residential lots in and around Kununurra. |
It also paves the way for agricultural expansion and the negotiation of Ord Stage II. The State Government hopes to have an 'in-principle agreement' sorted out over Ord Stage II with the Kimberley Land Council (representing Aboriginal interests) by the end of September 2003. The recent redistribution of electoral boundaries means than many politicians are now looking at the seat of Kimberley in a different light. From being a secure Labor seat, observers now believe, it could well be a very marginal seat at the next State election. |
In this light, the sudden interest being taken in the East Kimberley by the State Government could logically be expected to continue. It would appear a 'fait accompli' that Minister for the Kimberley Tom Stephens will lose his upper house seat to satisfy the Labor Party's quota for women policy. He is expected to stand for preselection for the lower house seat of Pilbara. The Kimberley Echo contacted his media officer for comment on the East Kimberley's brighter future, but as yet we have not heard back. |