Outback icon protected

Traditional owners, local government and the South Australian Government (through the State-wide claim resolution process) have joined forces to protect the ecology, cultural heritage and natural beauty of the lunar-like landscape of SAâs Breakaways Reserve.
Located about 25km north-west of Coober Pedy, the unique outback location has been the backdrop for some of Australiaâs most successful films and is a popular attraction for travellers and photographers.
New signs have been erected in the reserve to inform visitors of the importance of preserving the Breakaways and respecting the native title claimants, the Antakirinja Matuntjara Yankunytjatjara people, who have a strong connection to the 70-million-years-old landscape.
National Native Title Tribunal Deputy President Chris Sumner is facilitating negotiations for an indigenous land use agreement over the Breakaways Reserve area between the native title claimants, the SA Government and the District Council of Coober Pedy. Sumner says the parties are united in their plan to maintain the reserve for future generations, "anyone who visits this stunning place will understand why it must be protected.
âThe local government and traditional owners have a common purpose here which has led to the erection of new signs as an important first step to deliver better protection.�?
The signs ask visitors to stay on designated tracks and leave rocks and soil undisturbed, to avoid causing further damage.
The Breakaways Reserve is protected under the Aboriginal Heritage Act and visitors are warned of the penalties imposed for breaches under the Act, which can be as high as $10,000 for an individual and up to $50,000 for a company.
Sumner said the signs were a practical way to ensure visitors understood how they could contribute to the long-term protection of the Breakaways Reserve.