Qld native title decision gives hope

A north Queensland native title decision has restored dignity and self-esteem to the Birriah People, a tribal elder says.

The Federal Court on Wednesday recognised the indigenous group as the traditional owners of 9845 square kilometres of land and waters between Mackay and Townsville.

"Where once there was nothing but suffering, hardship and humiliation, there is now a new beginning for my children and their children," Birriah elder Algon Walsh Jnr said.