Bodney v State of Western Australia

BEAUMONT J: 1 On 20 March 2001, I made orders rescheduling the timetable in this matter, which is now in my substantive docket. I then indicated that I would provide reasons, as follows, for doing so. 2 In my opinion, it is necessary pursuant to s 67(2) of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth), in the interests of effective case management, to exclude from the trial so much of the claim in WAG 149 of 1998 as overlaps the Yued (WAG 6192 of 1998), Ballardong (WAG 6181 of 1998) and Gnaala Karla Booja (WAG 6274 of 1998) proceedings, given the size and apparent complexity and diversity of all of these claims. 3 Given the evident lack of activity to date in the prosecution of the claims, it has become inevitable that the timetable be extended. However, I have and will keep the period 3 September until 21 September available for this matter; and in particular, if appropriate, I will be available to hear in chief any connection evidence from any applicant, especially if there are concerns about the health of any witness. 4 When the matter is next before me for directions (on 19 June 2001, or earlier if urgent), I expect to be informed of the scope of outstanding issues, if any, relating to land tenure details, including any questions that may require the Court to retain a cartographer as a consultant for that purpose. I certify that the preceding four (4) numbered paragraphs are a true copy of the Reasons for Directions herein of the Honourable Acting Chief Justice Beaumont.