New permits system: The Aboriginal Lands Trust has launched a new on-line application and processing system for issuing Aboriginal reserve entry permits. The system is easier to use and will reduce the turn-around time for many travellers applying for permits to travel through Aboriginal reserves in WA. There is also an auto-approval feature allowing travellers to enter their details and print out permits immediately. While auto-approval will not apply in all circumstances, it is estimated between 50 and 70 per cent of permits will be approved automatically. Further improvements will be made to the system in the next year. For more information or to apply for a permit visit www.dia.wa.gov.au/Land/Entry-Permits/ or call DIA acting permits officer Joan Groves on 9235 8058.

Indigenous autobiography published: Noongar man Eric Hedley Hayward’s inspiring account of his experiences growing up in an Indigenous family No Free Kicks is published this month by Fremantle Arts Press. Hayward describes his life growing up in extreme poverty, living both in the bush and the city and moving from the mission and camps to studying at university. He also details his family’s long association with Australian Rules Football and how it became a powerful factor in their lives. Hayward was born in the Gnowangerup Mission in 1945, where his mother and father were married, and finished his education in Perth while living in an Aboriginal hostel run by the Native Welfare Department. He is married with four children and five grandchildren.

Rob Riley biography launched: A biography on inspirational Aboriginal leader Rob Riley will be launched this month, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of his death. Written by Edith Cowan University Associate Professor Quentin Beresford, Rob Riley: An Aboriginal Leader’s Quest For Justice, will be launched by Aboriginal Studies Press and ECU at 4.30pm on Friday, 12 May at the Government House Ballroom on St Georges Terrace. It will be followed by a public lecture at 5pm on Tuesday, 6 June at ECU’s Mount Lawley Campus. For more information call 6304 2083 or visit: www.ecu.edu.au/pr/riley to register your attendance. Spaces are limited.