Chief Executive Officer, Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation
Joshua Paterson was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC in 2021. Bringing strong leadership and strategic vision to the role, Joshua played a key role in one of the Corporation’s most significant milestones — the successful handback of Daintree National Park (CYPAL) to the Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra later that same year. This achievement marked a major step forward in the recognition of Eastern Kuku Yalanji cultural heritage and land rights.
Joshua’s extensive experience across government, community, and senior leadership was put to the test during the devastation caused by Cyclone Jasper and the severe flooding of the Bloomfield River — the area where he was raised. In the face of this crisis, he demonstrated strong leadership and resilience, advocating for urgent recovery efforts and emphasizing the critical need for long-term future planning.
Joshua continues to lead Jabalbina with a strong commitment to self-determination, cultural preservation, and sustainable development for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people.
