The Federal Court of Australia has formally recognised the Indigenous people of central Queensland as the traditional owners of the land.
The Darumbal people filed a native title application for land covering most of central Queensland almost two decades ago — making it one of the longest running claims in the state's history.
Today in a special on-country hearing, Federal Court Judge Bernea Collins acknowledged them as the traditional owners.
More than 100 people came to watch the hearing.
Many cried and hugged each other, while others cheered and clapped at the end of the proceedings.
The agreement recognises the Darumbal people's right to hunt, fish, gather, teach and conduct traditional ceremonies on the land.
The determination area covers almost 15,000 square kilometres.
Warren Malone was one of the people who made the application in 1997, and said the formal recognition was important for his people.
"We always knew that we were from here, but it's good to see it there in black and white," he said.
"I've noticed since we started, I'm all about the kids and I've noticed the pride they have in themselves now is just fantastic.
"We earn good income from doing cultural heritage surveys and that and we help a lot of our young people getting into school and stuff.
"I've always wanted to go to the polling booth one day and vote for one of these Darumbal kids."