Mary G creator Mark Bin Bakar to form part of new Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Council

Kimberley First Nation icon and creator of ‘Mary G’, Martin Bin Bakar, has been appointed to the State’s new Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Council.

Bin Bakar is one of seven newly appointed councillors voted in for a two-year term to establish the council under the new Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2021 — working towards the protection, conservation, and preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage.

The Kitja man is commonly known as the face of Mary G — a female character created to empower Indigenous peoples and raise awareness on issues — and is famed for his accomplishments in live performances, singing and songwriting.

Dubbed the Kimberley’s favourite Aunty, he will now form part of the peak strategic body on Aboriginal cultural heritage matters, and provide advice to the Aboriginal Affairs minister, designate local Aboriginal cultural heritage services and approve permits and management plans.

The council will also facilitate negotiations between proponents and Aboriginal parties when an agreement cannot be reached.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti said the new council represents a “significant shift” in how Aboriginal cultural heritage is managed.

“It is a vastly improved legislative framework to ensure Aboriginal people are consulted without coercion, to prioritise agreement making and to increase penalties for non-compliance,” Mr Buti said.

“The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Council will be central to this work, and I am very pleased with the quality and experience of the inaugural members appointed.

“As the legislation requires, the council comprises two Aboriginal co-chairs — male and female — and the membership is majority Aboriginal, with the required skills and knowledge to perform the important functions of the council.”

Mr Buti said the purpose of the council would be to provide advice to the government while setting standards to identify, protect, and manage the rich heritage.

“The council’s first task will be to review the key documents and regulations being developed ahead of the third and final phase of co-design, which is expected to commence in October,” Mr Buti said.

“I am looking forward to working alongside the council over the next two years as Western Australia’s new Aboriginal cultural heritage laws become fully operational.”

The other council members include Irene Stainton, Merle Carter, Graham Casteldine, Dr Debbie Fletcher, Belinda Moharich, and Kevin Walley.