After nearly two decades in the courts the native title holders of the Banka Banka (East and West), Helen Springs and Powell Creek pastoral leases celebrated recognition of their ongoing connection to country at a consent determination.

The event was attended by Justice White from the Federal Court and the Native Title claimants who were represented by the Northern Land Council.

Native title holder Mary Noonan said it was a special day.

"We'll remember this day in history. I've got tears in my eyes. I just cry because some of my old people they didn't live to see this, the recognition today is just amazing," she said.

The recognition means sacred sites will be conserved and protected, according to native title holder Dick Foster.

"It's really important to make sure that the sacred sites of this country are protected. I'm really pleased that we got this country back," he said.

NLC chief executive officer Marion Scrymgour thanked everyone involved.

"The NLC thanks its staff, all of the native title holders and the Federal Court for helping to make this important day one that will stay in the memory of native title holders and will be passed down to future generations."

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