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Adnyamathanha request better community governance
Media release from Charlie Jackson
T
he Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) has given Adnyamathanha Traditional Lands Association (ATLA) directors permission to refuse a call for a general meeting of ATLA from a large number of ATLA members. In July, Charlie Jackson, an Adnyamathanha Elder and former ATLA director wrote to ATLA on behalf of over 150 Adnyamathanha people, seeking a general meeting of ATLA. The meeting request stated: ‘We consider tat ATLA needs a change of direction We are concerned about some decisions made by the directors within the last year or so.’ The proposed agenda for the general meeting included removal
of all ATLA directors. The ATLA directors refused to hold the general meeting as requested. Mr jackson said: ‘I am very disappointed that the ATLA directors did not see fit to hold the general meeting as requested.’ ‘The ATLA membership remains divided. ‘The ony good thing to come out of this is the ORIC has noted that the ATLA AGM must be held on or before 30 November 2013.’ ‘At the AGM, fresh appointment of directors must take place The financial report must be presented. Members are entitled to ask questions about how ATLA is managed. ‘ATLA has two trust. We do not have sufficient information about these trusts and the trustees. Large amouns of mining royalties are received by the trusts.’
‘Apparently one of these trusts and ATLA is involved in the purchase and operation of the Wilpena Pound Resort.’ ‘I believe that ATLA needs to fully explain the financial dealings with Wilpena the liabities, the financial plans and future costs.’ ‘ATLA also needs to ensure that its directors’ meetings are better run.’ ‘Often the directors’ meetings are not good. I have seen directors shout at other directors. I have seen refusal to answer valid questions.’ ‘Some directors need to curb their bad behaviour at directors’ meetings. Other directors should not feel bullied or intimidated. Mutual respect between directors is expected and required.’ ‘After 15 years, I think it is time for a change in ATLA. I think that we need a new chairperson of ATLA.’ Page 1