The leadership, collaboration and legacy of First Nations businesses have been showcased at the annual Rockhampton Indigenous Business Month Celebration, held on Darumbal Country and supported by Rockhampton Regional Council's lead economic development agency, Advance Rockhampton.
Recognising this year's theme, Local and Connected, the event explored the economic and social value Indigenous businesses add to the Rockhampton Region through community ties, collaborative partnerships, and connection with the broader business community.
Aligning with the theme, two new categories were added to the annual Business Recognition Awards for the third iteration of the event:
- Empowering Communities Award (NEW) - Gumbi-Gumbi Residential Withdrawal and Rehabilitation Service
- Recognises an Indigenous owned, governed or community led organisation, group or initiative that demonstrates Indigenous self determination in action by strengthening social, cultural and economic wellbeing. The award celebrates initiatives that uphold the rights of Indigenous peoples to determine their own futures, create sustainable economic opportunity, and build strong, resilient communities through culturally grounded leadership and partnerships.
- Shared Prosperity Award (NEW) -Tunuba Pty Ltd
- Recognises a business or individual who has demonstrated a genuine, sustained and principled commitment to advancing Indigenous self determination and economic prosperity by supporting Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurship. The award celebrates leadership that contributes to shared prosperity, recognising that respectful partnerships, ethical practices and Indigenous led decision making are critical to long term economic outcomes.
- Cultural Community Impact Award - Warama Culture
- Recognises an Indigenous business making a significant positive impact on their community through cultural leadership, social initiatives, or community empowerment.
- Integration Collaboration Award - Ochre Social Performance
- Celebrates partnerships that foster meaningful collaboration between Indigenous businesses and other sectors, organisations, or communities.
- Rising Star Award - Trusted Cuts
- Recognises an emerging Indigenous entrepreneur or business showing exceptional promise, innovation, and leadership in their early stages.
The Indigenous Business Month Celebration is delivered by a working group which includes representation from Native Title Holders, State and Federal government agencies, non-government agencies and local Indigenous-led businesses.
Advance Rockhampton thanks the Queensland Indigenous Business Network for its ongoing partnership.
The Indigenous Business Month Celebration is proudly sponsored by Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (DPAC), Central Queensland Indigenous Development (CQID), The First Nations Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Stanwell Power Station, and supported by Local Jobs Fitzroy.
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams
"The Indigenous Business Month Celebration is an important opportunity to recognise the outstanding contribution Indigenous businesses make to the Rockhampton Region, and the achievements of local leaders.
"This year's theme, Local and Connected, captures the importance of Indigenous businesses in our regional economy. By strengthening relationships between First Nations businesses across our community, we can create opportunities that bring real benefits.
"When people, businesses and communities come together with a shared purpose, the possibilities are endless. The Indigenous Business Month Celebration is an excellent demonstration of the people in our community helping build a more connection and inclusive future for all."
Quotes attributable to Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (DPAC RNTBC) Chairperson, Gloria Malone
"DPAC is proud to be a partner and sponsor of this year's Indigenous Business Month Celebration and to provide an important platform to demonstrate the success of businesses on Darumbal Country.
"Indigenous businesses create opportunities for future generations of Indigenous people. They combine cultural knowledge and entrepreneurship to deliver economic outcomes while strengthening connection to community and Country.
"The Indigenous Business Month Celebration reflects the power local connections. This event is brought together by organisations united by a common goal - to support Indigenous businesses, celebrate ideas and innovation and build partnerships which create lasting benefits for all."
