The name Gumala carries deep meaning. In the Banjima language, Gumala means “all together.” It reflects the spirit of unity shown when the Banjima, Yinhawangka and Nyiyaparli peoples came together in 1997 to negotiate the Yandi Land Use Agreement (YLUA) and the General Gumala Foundation Trust Deed.
The YLUA was a historic and visionary step. Signed in 1997 with Hamersley Iron Pty Ltd (now Rio Tinto), it was the first agreement of its kind in Western Australia. It enabled mining on Traditional Land in exchange for compensation paid to Traditional Owners. Taking more than 12 months to complete, it was also the first major land‑use agreement concluded after the 1992 Mabo Decision. In 2022, the Gumala Trust proudly celebrated 25 years since this milestone.
The General Gumala Foundation Trust Deed, signed in the same year, is a comprehensive legal document between Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (the Manager), Gumala Investments Pty Ltd (the Trustee), and the Traditional Owners of the Banjima, Yinhawangka and Nyiyaparli peoples. Together, these organisations form the General Gumala Foundation.
The Yandicoogina mine, established under the agreement, began operations in 1998. Located 95 kilometres north‑west of Newman, on the edge of the spectacular Karijini National Park, it is an open‑pit mine with on‑site processing facilities.
More than 28 years on, the spirit of “all together” continues to guide us. The Gumala Trust works alongside Gumala Aboriginal Corporation and Gumala Enterprises & Developments to serve the Traditional Owners of the Banjima, Nyiyaparli and Yinhawangka peoples.
The Gumala Trust acts as a safe pair of hands, ensuring the best interests of our Beneficiaries are upheld — now and into the future. We were established to manage funds from the Yandi Land Use Agreement. In doing so, we represent the Elders, protect their legacy, and carry forward their vision of a strong future.
Our role is to make sure there are resources not just for today, but for tomorrow, and for many tomorrows to come.
