Port Vila, 15-09-2025:  A high-level delegation led by the President of the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, Paramount Chief Paul Robert Ravun Merhimba Dangdang, has departed Vanuatu last Saturday and received a warm welcome in Cairns, marking the start of a historic first official visit of the Council of Chiefs to Australia.

The visit comes at the invitation of the Traditional Owners of the lands in Cairns and across Cape York, extended in June 2025 by His Excellency Mr. Justin Mohamed, Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People. The Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership in Queensland is hosting the Leadership Exchange from 14 to 19 September 2025, in partnership with traditional leaders, community organisations, and cultural institutions.

The Malvatumauri delegation includes the President and his wife, the Chief Executive Officer, and six chiefs representing Vanuatu’s six provinces.

This groundbreaking exchange marks a powerful connection between the traditional leadership of Vanuatu and the traditional owners from Cairns to Cape York. It is designed to foster deep dialogue, shared wisdom, and celebration of culture between First Nations peoples and Vanuatu’s chiefs.

Over the coming days, the Council of Chiefs will take part in:

• Cultural ceremonies that honour and strengthen traditions.
• Leadership discussions on governance, kastom, and community development.
• Knowledge exchanges on land, culture, and heritage with Cape York institutions, including Hope Vale Congress and the Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy.

“The exchange is a unique opportunity to strengthen the bonds between the cultures of Vanuatu and the First Nations of Australia — to sit together, walk together, and share stories together,” said the organisers.

Supported by the Government of Australia through the Cape York Institute, this initiative is anticipated to pave the way for future cultural and leadership exchanges between the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, the Ministry of Justice and Community Services, and First Nations partners in Australia.

This milestone visit not only deepens the relationship between traditional leaders across the Pacific but also lays the foundation for lasting collaboration rooted in culture, respect, and shared identity.