Gugu-Badhun

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The Gugu Badhun are an Aboriginal nation in northern Queensland, living in the Upper Burdekin region. Their traditional country covers about 6,540 square kilometres around the Valley of Lagoons, including Greenvale and nearby stations. Today, about 1,000 to 2,000 people identify as Gugu Badhun.

Language and people
- They spoke the Gugu Badhun language, a dialect of the Warrongo group within Greater Maric. Today many people speak English, with Warrongo once being common.
- Gugu Badhun country stretches around the Upper Burdekin River, with connections to nearby groups like the Warungu and Gudjal.

Land and landscape
- The land was shaped by lava from Kinrara volcano about 7,000 years ago. The key area is the Valley of Lagoons, where many lagoons lie near the Burdekin River. Some lagoons stay year-round, providing water for birds, kangaroos and other animals, and cattle today.
- The countryside features thick vegetation near water and open eucalyptus woodland away from water.

Native title and governance
- The Gugu Badhun hold native title to about 6,540 square kilometres. The Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation (GBAC) acts as the Registered Native Title Body Corporate for the people.

History and on-country life
- The first European contact was in 1845 with Ludwig Leichhardt. In the 1860s, Native Police tried to move people off the land. The Gugu Badhun resisted for about 20 years, then many worked on cattle stations and stayed connected to country.
- In the 1930s and 1940s, many moved to towns for education and work. A notable Gugu Badhun activist was Dick Hoolihan, the first President of the Townsville Aboriginal Advancement League, who played a big role in Aboriginal affairs.

Today
- Gugu Badhun people continue to gather on country, including an annual Culture Camp that strengthens community, connection to land, and cultural values.