NSW Aboriginal Fishing Rights Group 

Wally Stewart, a 63-year-old Walbunja man from the Yuin nation on the south coast of NSW, is a distinguished representative for the Far South Coast Native Title Claim. Elected as one of 13 applicants, he brings extensive knowledge and experience in native title and land rights issues, having been involved in various native title claims. 

Throughout his career, Stewart has held diverse roles, including commercial fisherman, senior positions with NPWS, and NSW Aboriginal Liaison Officer with marine parks. He currently serves on several boards advocating for his community and is an active member of the South Coast Aboriginal Fishing Rights group, where he champions Aboriginal fishing rights in NSW. 

Stewart’s focus is on lobbying the government for employment opportunities for south coast residents and ensuring their voices are heard in the management of local waters. Employed as a project officer with Joonga Land & Water Aboriginal Corporation, he manages three businesses owned by the corporation: the Eurobodalla Smart Drumline Contract, a charter boat offering Aboriginal Culture tours, and an Aboriginal commercial dive team. 

This dive team collaborates with UNSW and DPI to address the Sea Urchin issue identified by south coast cultural fishermen and communities in the region. Outside of his professional work, Stewart is a proud father of six children and a grandfather to fourteen grandchildren.