Annual report
2024 - 2025
who we are
Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK) is the Native Title Representative Body for the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area, including the Endeavour Strait region. GBK exists to protect, secure and advance the rights and interests of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of the region in relation to land, sea, and cultural heritage.
GBK was formed through the collective direction of Traditional Owners and is governed by our people. Our leadership approach is grounded in Ailan Kastom, respect for Elders’ authority, kinship structures, and decision-making on-Country.
our year in numbers
GBK is proud to serve as the Native Title Service Provider (NTSP) for the Torres Strait and Endeavour Strait region, supporting Traditional Owners to protect their rights, strengthen governance, and realise their aspirations for land and sea country.
In our third year as NTSP, GBK focused on building strong and capable Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate (RNTBCs), supporting dispute resolution, preparing the region for the emerging compensation phase, and facilitating and assisting external lawyers to progress active native title claims.
This work reflects GBK’s commitment to ensuring Traditional Owners’ rights and interests are protected, PBCs are empowered to act as effective trustees, and that the Torres Strait region is equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities.
Native title services
finalising native title claims
Supporting the progression and resolution of active native title claims
Preparing for compensation
Strengthening dispute resolution processes and undertaking boundary mapping projects.
RNTBC governance & capacity building
Developing training and assisting RNTBCs where required
Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab (MGNM) delivers Community Development Program (CDP) services across the Torres and Endeavour Straits as part of GBK. MGNM plays a critical role in fostering connections between job seekers, employers, and communities by enhancing job readiness, facilitating access to training, addressing individual barriers to work, and creating pathways to meaningful employment.
In remote regions where real jobs can be scarce, many community members face the risk of becoming dependent on passive welfare, which can erode their sense of purpose and self-worth. To combat this, MGNM uses integrated case management to offer tailored assistance, focusing on each job seeker’s unique needs and readiness for work.
Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab
Exceptional results
Our work crews
Skill development
People & Partnerships
The heart of our success lies in strength of our people and the power of our partnerships. This year, we have continued to foster a collaborative culture, allowing us to innovate and contribute to a shared purpose - the betterment and strengthening of services for Torres Strait Islander people.
We have also made meaningful progress, navigated challenges with resilience and creativity, and made decisions that have positioned us for a sustainable and impactful future.
Projects
GBK is involved in key projects with organisations around the country
corporate services
Focussing on enhancing efficiency and internal capacity
YUMI workforce
GBK’s strength lies in our people - they are at the heart of everything we do
