Gumala news December 2012 by Gumala Aboriginal Corporation

GUMALA Aboriginal Corporation ICN 2744

GUMALA NEWS CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION When reading this publication and sharing it with family and friends, please be mindful that it may contain images and/or names of people who have since passed away When reading this publication and sharing it with family and friends, please be mindful that it may contain images and/or names of people who have since passed away

GUMALA NEWS

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Chairman’s comment important time in their lives, it’s important that they embrace the experience and take in all the knowledge the Elders pass on to them during Lore time.

SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The festive season is a time for families to come together and enjoy good food, laughter and fond memories. However some families who have lost loved ones recently will be doing it tough during this time. I’d like to especially acknowledge the Robinson family for their sad loss. Our thoughts are with you during this very sad and difficult time.

THE YEAR AHEAD GAC Chairman Stephen Peterson

Thunurrdu! (Welcome!) With the festive season upon us, I’d like to share a few thoughts about recent happenings at Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC).

AGM Firstly, I’d like to thank all GAC Members for coming along to the AGM on November 24, and also to the Elders who attended the Elders Meeting the day before the AGM. Both meetings were very successful. It was an opportunity for everyone to provide feedback to the Board, which was conducted with respect and order by all participants. I’d like to congratulate the three new Directors voted in by the Members at the AGM: Roy Tommy (Innawonga), Susan Bung (Nyiyaparli) and Karen Tommy (Banyjima). I’m sure these three Directors, whose appointments commence 30 days after the AGM, will continue the great work of outgoing Directors Doreen James (Innawonga), David Stock (Nyiyaparli) and Archie Tucker

(Banyjima). I was privileged to be re-elected as Chairman, and congratulate Deputy Chairman Stuart Ingie Snr and Secretary Director David MacLean on being re-elected. I look forward to continuing our work together in the future.

LISTENING TOUR The days leading up to the AGM were very busy for myself and the CEO, as we went on a Listening Tour in several towns where many of our Members live. The Listening Tour gave us the opportunity to gather vital feedback from our Members. This was an important exercise which also allowed us to inform our Members of Gumala’s recent achievements. We were there to listen to the feedback from Members on how we could continue to improve our service and support.

LORE TIME I’d like to express my best wishes to all the young men going through Lore ceremonies over this summer. During this very

Finally, I’d like to wish all of our Members and their families a safe, healthy and happy festive season. 2012 was a successful year for Gumala and I am confident that this momentum will continue in 2013. I appreciate the commitment and support of the Board as we continue to work together to serve all of the Members’ best interests. Stephen Peterson Chairman

GUMALA NEWS

Chief Executive Officer’s comment WA LISTENING TOUR It was refreshing and a valuable experience for the Chairman and I to have travelled throughout WA recently. We visited over 10 localities and met with many Members as part of directly engaging with the membership and receiving their feedback – both good and bad. Overall, Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) is being recognised as providing many services that benefit the Traditional Owners. However, there are many challenges still ahead, notwithstanding that over the past five years the membership has doubled and the operational budget has increased from $2 million to $20 million per annum. It was heartening to listen and to share conversations with our Members and to have a better appreciation of what their expectations are for their organisation moving forward. The Chairman and I express our appreciation to everyone who was involved in what I hope will become a more regular occurrence.

Front cover photo: Taeshallyn Egan (daughter of Gumala Member Bradi Tucker). Photo by Elly Lukale, GAC.

GUMALA NEWS is a Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (ICN 2744) publication.

CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION

Steve Mav pictured with Irene Coffin during the recent WA Listening Tour

GAC Chief Executive Officer Steve Mav

CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH During the year significant changes were adopted at GAC to modernize and enhance our operational systems, controls, policies and procedures, to reflect having become one of the largest Aboriginal corporations in Australia. This included the need to strengthen our service delivery and to better meet the needs of our ever growing membership.

ALASKA/CANADA STUDY TOUR As part of adopting international best practice and becoming Australia’s leading Indigenous organisation, GAC has established a dialogue with some of the world’s most innovative and reputable Indigenous organisations in North America.

These changes were accelerated, following the Federal Regulator issuing a Compliance Notice which necessitated immediate changes.

A recent Board delegation attended the Alaska Federation of Natives Annual Convention in Anchorage. Over 4000 delegates and representatives participated in one of the most significant Indigenous conferences around the globe.

It was a significant chapter in our history to have implemented all the necessary changes in 2012 and to have received a clean bill of health from the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC).

It was evident in our meetings with officials that international partnerships and a borderless world are creating new opportunities to better achieve strong, progressive and innovate Indigenous organisations.

This was in addition to another unqualified audit for the financial year.

The delegation was fortunate to be briefed on contemporary Continued >

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governance practices, economic and social development programs and a number of initiatives that are improving the lives of Indigenous people throughout the world. We also had the opportunity to visit, first hand, Indigenous communities in the arctic and remote parts of Canada.

WA Education Minister Peter Collier has signed a partnership agreement between Gumala Aboriginal Corporation and Tom Price Primary School for the 3A (Abecedarian Approach Australia) Project”, Gumala’s innovative Early Childhood Program at the Wakuthuni community.

The Study Tour is allowing us to review our current programs with the view of better meeting the expectations of the Traditional Owners whom we represent.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The sentiment of the meeting was overwhelmingly positive and a significant decision was made by the Members to revisit a merger between GAC, the parent company and its independent trustee to the General Gumala Foundation, Gumala Investments Proprietary Limited (GIPL).

Gumala Member Robert Dhu Snr with Steve Mav during the WA Listening Tour

The Members expressed a desire for greater strategic alignment and the realisation of cost efficiencies across our entire operations.

who were all re-elected. It is expected a decision on a new structure will be put to the Members in the second half of 2013.

Congratulations to the Chairman (Stephen Peterson), Deputy Chairman (Stuart Ingie Senior) and Secretary (David MacLean)

FINAL NOTE This has been a year of continued growth and further proof that GAC is on its way to becoming the leading Aboriginal corporation in Australia. Whilst there is still much more work to do there is no doubt that the recent capacity building achievements at GAC are advancing self-determination and improving the lives of the Traditional Owners. Together with the Board, management and our Elders, GAC will continue its journey of transformational change in the New Year. Wishing you a prosperous festive season and celebrations for those currently involved in the ancient and important Lore and Culture ceremonies over the Christmas period. Best wishes

GAC’s Chairman Stephen Peterson and CEO Steve Mav pictured with GAC Members during a WA Listening Tour session in Onslow. The listening tour covered several localities where many Gumala Members live.

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Education Minister signs partnership agreement for Gumala’s unique Early Childhood “3A” Project

> CEO Comment continued

GAC held a successful AGM in November with approximately 200 Members travelling from around the State to attend the meeting in Paraburdoo (on Innawonga land).

GUMALA NEWS

Steve Mav Chief Executive Officer

Minister Collier: “I want to congratulate the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation and the Department of Education, through Tom Price Primary School, for entering into a partnership to deliver a program that is designed to improve children’s oral language, social and emotional skills and wellbeing. “The program is about strengthening links between the community and the school and will be run in a purpose-built early learning studio in the Wakuthuni community with fully qualified early childhood teachers.” The partnership agreement will also provide resources for a welcome centre for Aboriginal students at Tom Price Primary School. Mr Collier said the Welcome Centre at Tom Price Primary School helps students with access to uniforms, food and basic care before, during and after school.

The 3A project (Australian Abecedarian Approach) involved the design and construction of the early childhood education facility in the Wakuthuni homeland community. Gumala then collaborated with University of Melbourne Graduate School of Education and Tom Price Primary School in order to establish the 3A education program.

and future generations.”

Gumala Chairman Stephen Peterson: “This is an exciting development in the life of the Wakuthuni early childhood centre’s development. This early childhood centre is one of the first centres in Australia to implement the 3A approach.

“The 3A project has been a ground breaking project given the increasing awareness of the significance of early childhood education in setting children’s learning trajectories and closing the education gap.

“The project was commissioned at the request of the local community, who identified a need to improve the educational and developmental outcomes of their children. Education is an exceptionally important issue for Gumala because the Traditional Owners constantly remind us that the future of the Banyjima, Innawonga and Nyiyaparli peoples lies in the future of their children, their children’s children,

Gumala Chief Executive Officer Steve Mav: “Over the last few years Gumala has increased its spending and focus on education. This partnership will allow us to continue to focus on education being a key developmental tool for our Members, especially in the early childhood years.

“The 3A approach uses learning strategies which incorporate educational games, conversational reading and enriched care giving. The approach also assists parents by educating them about appropriate care-giving and learning activities for their children.” Gumala Aboriginal Corporation wishes to acknowledge the West Pilbara Communities for Children for its support of the 3A Project.

“This centre is really important as it helps all students to enjoy their school day without worrying about whether or not they have a lunch packed or the right uniform,” he said. The 3A Project is a partnership between Gumala Aboriginal Corporation, The University of Melbourne and the Tom Price Primary School. It is a pioneering model of early childhood education that has been specifically created for this Indigenous community.

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Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s highlights reel for 2012 Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s list of achievements and milestones in 2012 is the strongest in our corporate history. Our financial and operational successes, together with our strengthened corporate governance and organisational restructuring, have gone hand in hand with transformational growth that now sets us apart as the benchmark for other Aboriginal corporations to follow. Some of our many highlights for the year include: • A complete clean bill of health from the federal regulator, ORIC. This tick of approval by ORIC is significant and demonstrates that GAC is a benchmark for other Aboriginal corporations throughout Australia, in terms of good corporate governance and international best practice.

• During the financial year ended June 30, 2012, over $10 million of funds were spent by Gumala Aboriginal Corporation on various Income Utilisation Categories

• Capital Works, Community Services and Assistance. This includes continual improvements to existing facilities, maintenance and upkeep and installing new facilities at our remote communities (including those communities’ Lore Camps). • This year marked the 15 year anniversary of the signing of the Yandi Land Use Agreement, which was the first major land use agreement between a mining giant and an Aboriginal corporation.

• Housing Projects. Gumala progressed its housing projects significantly. The South Hedland Housing Project is about to enter its construction phase, while significant gains have been result: Yandi Above: The Bellary Springs Community (photo taken15 on years the daylater, of thethe official progressed in bringing the Tom CentreThe mine has become Australia’s opening: June 29, 2012). Inset: Image taken during the construction phase Price Elderly Complex project largest iron ore producing mine. and the Tom Price Housing Project to fruition. • Health and Education Needs

• GAC’s exceptional financial management performance, formally recognised in successive Annual Reports by way of independent unqualified audit reports in all respects of GAC’s financial operations. • Strong relationships with our key Stakeholders and Partners, including: Rio Tinto, GEPL, Compass Group, The University of Melbourne, Murdoch University, and many others.

GAC’s homeland communities. The 3A Project (incorporating the Abecedarian Approach to learning) and its success represent a first for Western Australia. Gumala is the first organisation in WA to implement the Abecedarian Approach in an early childhood centre.

Analysis program, in partnership with Murdoch University in 2012. Murdoch University delivered the “Health and Education Needs Analysis of Gumala Aboriginal Corporation Members” report which included results and conclusions of a comprehensive survey of Gumala Members. The report also outlined a range of detailed recommendations. GAC intends to take steps to implement some of these recommendations. • Highly successful Elders Meetings and Annual General Meetings at Karijini National Park (March 2012) and Paraburdoo (November 2012).

Professor Collette Tayler (The University of Melbourne; 3A Project) pictured with Benjamin Limerick. Gumala’s relationship with its key stakeholders, including The University of Melbourne, went from strength to strength during 2012.

(IUCs). Approximately 43 per cent of the funds spent were on the Health & Well-being IUC, while approximately 25 per cent was spent on the Community Development IUC.

• Further programs were developed during the year, including the Utilities Program and the Country Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Program. GAC now offers over 25 Member Services programs (five years ago we only had a few programs), including Health and Well-being Programs and Lore & Culture Programs. • The design, construction and official opening of the Bellary Springs Community Centre, in partnership with The University of Melbourne and Lotterywest. This followed on from a successful partnership forged during 2011 which culminated in Gumala’s highly successful Early Childhood Centre at Wakuthuni.

The Bellary Springs Community Centre was made possible thanks to an innovative partnership between Gumala Aboriginal Corporation, Lotterywest and The University of Melbourne. Rio Tinto provided significant in-kind assistance during the construction phase.

• The implementation of the 3A Project, a Gumala Aboriginal Corporation / University of Melbourne joint venture. The 3A Project is making great gains in addressing the need for early childhood education within

During the financial year ended June 30, 2012, over $10 million of funds were spent by Gumala Aboriginal Corporation on various Income Utilisation Categories, including a range of Health & Well Being, Education and Lore & Culture programs for the benefit of all of Gumala’s Traditional Owners, young and old. Pictured is young Kira Stream.

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Construction of South Hedland homes about to commence Gumala’s South Hedland Housing project is on track to enter the construction phase early in 2013. The Design contract with Fleetwood Pty Ltd has been

signed for 10 pre-fabricated modular homes. These three and four bedroom homes will be prefabricated in Perth and delivered to South Hedland.

The homes will be erected on lots of land in the Demarchi Estate in South Hedland. Gumala is also making initial steps to engage a consultant to put a tenancy allocation process in place. Once the South Hedland Housing project is underway, Gumala will concentrate on bringing the Tom Price Housing project and the Tom Price Elders’ Complex to fruition.

The design concept of Gumala’s South Hedland homes (design concept subject to change)

Gumala’s housing strategy aims to source land and construct appropriate residential accommodation for our Members throughout the Pilbara. This will incrementally address the chronic accommodation shortage that exists for Gumala Members living in Pilbara regional centres and in Homeland communities.

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Official opening of Perth CBD office celebrates a prudent investment in our future Perth’s central business district officially welcomed its new residents in October as the General Gumala Foundation, its Trustee and its Manager, celebrated the official opening of Gumala’s Adelaide Terrace office. Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) and Gumala Investments Pty Ltd (GIPL) moved to the prominent 165 Adelaide Terrace address following the purchase of three floors as part of the General Gumala Foundation’s investment portfolio. GIPL Chairperson Dianne Guise: “The Adelaide Terrace purchase represented a prudent investment which would be for the long term benefit of the Foundation’s Traditional Owners.”

GAC Chairman Stephen Peterson watches Gumala Elders (and two of the original signatories to the Yandi Land Use Agreement) Gordon Yuline and Naydene Robinson during the ribbon cutting ceremony.

“It was important for GAC, as Manager of the General Gumala Foundation, to find an office that could host an area for our Beneficiaries to come and use computer facilities, phones and

Perspective View - 4x2 House

19 Jewell Parade North Fremantle, Western Australia 6159 T 08 9335 5220 F 08 9335 5281 www.formworks.com.au

CANE RIVER Lore Time at Cane River is expected to start in December. Lore Camp upgrades are progressing well, with electrical and plumbing works underway.

WAKUTHUNI The Lore Camp upgrades at Wakuthuni commenced in October. Key upgrades recently completed: • Reticulation water system completed in the family camp • Fencing around the generator and windmill • General repairs Wakuthuni’s Lore Time started in November. A study will be done on the effectiveness of the recent upgrades and repairs once Lore has finished.

YOUNGALEENA There was no Lore ceremony at Youngaleena this year. However, electrical works have been organised for the Lore camp.

BELLARY SPRINGS There was no Lore ceremony at Bellary Springs this year. However, works are being organised to complete water supply works to the Lore grounds.

Mr Peterson emphasised that GAC’s Head Office will always remain in Tom Price. “The heart of Gumala lies in the Pilbara and the Head Office of the organisation will always remain in Tom Price. This is where our connection to country is and where our traditional roots are.”

Update on Lore camp upgrades

Owners are proud of their organisation’s building, feel comfortable to come and use the facilities and get to know the staff.”

WA State Government representative Andrea Mitchell MLA

Ms Guise said the opening ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate the on-going relationship between the General Gumala Foundation and Rio Tinto. “This coincides with the 15 year anniversary of the Yandi Land Use Agreement in 2012. The Yandi Land Use Agreement signed in 1997 enabled Rio Tinto to develop the Yandicoogina mine on our Traditional Owners’ land. It is now Australia’s biggest iron ore mine and the revenue stream stemming from the agreement continues to provide long-term benefits to the Foundation’s Beneficiaries.” Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s Chairman, Stephen Peterson:

Alex Bates, Rio Tinto General Manager Yandicoogina

printing so that they can apply for jobs, send or print their CVs, make important phone calls or seek funding assistance. It is also important that the Traditional

Ms Guise: “Today the relationship between Gumala Investments, Gumala Aboriginal Corporation and Rio Tinto remains strong and transparent and we are committed to the future of the Foundation’s Beneficiaries and their future generations as we work at the heart of the issues to ‘close the gap’ between Indigenous Australians and the wider community.”

GIPL Chair Di Guise addresses an audience of over 100 special guests who attended the official opening ceremony

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GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ELDERS MEETING

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& ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING IMAGES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER 23 & 24, 2012

Approximately 200 Gumala Members plus their families attended the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) 2012 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday November 24, 2012. The AGM, as well as the Elders Meeting held the day before, were highly successful and rewarding events.

Alec Tucker

Eileen James and Tadgee Limerick

GAC Board Members and the CEO

Stuart Ingie Snr and David MacLean

Bonny Tucker, Suzanne Parker and Gladys Tucker

Winston Bobby

GAC Chairman Stephen Peterson and CEO Steve Mav Nicholas Cook chaired the AGM

Timothy Parker

Claude Cox and Slim Parker

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GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ELDERS MEETING

Food and drinks catered for the big gathering of Gumala Members and their families at the AGM

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& ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING IMAGES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER 23 & 24, 2012

Byron Black, Delena Drage, Meachum Kelly Jnr, Zandra Parker, Shona Hayes, Georgina Hubert, Tanya Hubert, Charmaine Parker, Grant Hayes and Tremelle Hubert

Johnell Jones

Julie Walker

Archie Tucker Bev Hubert Lauren Lyndon with Taeshallyn Egan

Kathleen Johnny and Tadgee Limerick

April Stream

BonnyTucker and young Quaylisgha Martin

Brad Hall and Dorothy Hall

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CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ELDERS MEETING

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& ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING IMAGES – NOVEMBER 23 & 24, 2012

Dawn Hicks Todd Jones and Tyrone Jones Jada Whalebone Bruce Bung

John Todd

Michelle Hubert, Delena Drage, Meachum Kelly Jnr and Charmaine Parker

May Byrne, Bev Hubert and Thelma Parker

David Cox, Betty Peterson and Doreen Aitchison Kurtis Hayes, Tremelle Hubert and Byron Black

Karen Mitchell

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CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ELDERS MEETING

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& ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING IMAGES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER 23 & 24, 2012

Guy Parker

Margaret Parker and Daliah Parker

Patricia Anne Derschow and July Namok Edward Dhu Senior

Dwayne Namok and July Namok Winston Bobby

Ken Ingie Snr

Maitland Parker

Debbie Cox and kids Traceilyah Parker and Joshua Cox Stephen Peterson and mum Betty Peterson

Keith Hall

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CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ELDERS MEETING

Gordon Yuline

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& ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING IMAGES – NOVEMBER 23 & 24, 2012

Alberta Roy

Tracon Parker Jnr

Roy Tommy

Brett Derschow

Charlie Smith

Dynah Namok

Kira Stream

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Academic excellence is just the beginning for young aspiring pilot A young Banyjima student excelling at school has been selected for Western Australia’s first academic enrichment program for Indigenous students, The Aspiration Initiatives (TAI) academic enrichment program. Brock Parker (14), was one of 30 Aboriginal students in WA to be selected for the program earlier this year. The program provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with thorough educational support throughout the academic year and school holidays for five years. In October, Brock attended the TAI’s first residential camp where the students came together to

meet, develop learning skills including public speaking and to participate in activities such as art. “The best part of the first camp was making new friends,” said Brock. Brock who is from the Youngaleena Community, did most of his education with Port Hedland School of the Air. This year he is studying Art, Maths, PE, Science, and is in the top English class for his year alongside his favourite specialist subject – Skywest Aviation.

SKYWEST AVIATION COURSE While Brock may be performing well at school, he aspires to either be a commercial pilot or gain a

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Top Melbourne Girls College graduate helps break down stereotypes

This year he took up a specialist paper “Skywest Aviation”, which he will continue for the next four years of his high school career.

Dedication and hard work is paying off for a Gumala Scholarship student at Melbourne Girl’s College and she hopes to set an example for fellow Indigenous students in ‘closing the gap’ in education in Australia.

The course, which is a partnership with Skywest Aviation, will set him up to walk away with a pilots degree and pilot experience by the end of year 12.

Year 12 student, Karri Walker (18), knows that studying hard and taking advantage of the opportunities when they are offered goes a long way.

Over the next two years, the course will provide him with comprehensive theory about how planes are made and the ins-andouts of the industry.

Last year she was awarded two awards of recognition. The first was for her level of achievement in Food Technology.

position in other areas of aviation when he graduates high school.

In year 11, Brock will be able to put his theory to the test when the junior pilot will be able to learn how to fly the school’s very own Cessna 152 and 172 planes.

FOLLOWING HIS DREAM Being a pilot is a dream that he has had his heart set on since he was four years old. With great family support around him, Brock has also been inspired by his pop Patrick Tittums’ achievements which include putting himself through flying school and nearing on completion to gain his wings to become a pilot.

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The second was a special award called the Madeline Hawkins Perpetual Award. Karri was the first recipient of this award, which is awarded to a student who embodies the philosophies of the school and who demonstrates tenacity, motivation and dedication to the school.

Karri is studying a full course of Food and Technology, Business Management and her two favourite subjects English and Legal Studies - two subjects which have influenced her career path next year; a double degree in Arts and Law at The University of Melbourne.

YEAR 12 EXAM PREPARATION In the lead up to her exams in November, she had been studying hard and is determined to graduate at the end of the year with a 90 ATAR score which will see her gain entrance into University. “This year I have been spending a lot of my time at the library studying. I haven’t dropped below a 90 percent average in my grades”, she said.

“It’s always been my aspiration to be a pilot. I have always been fascinated with planes since I was younger,” he said.

”One day I want to travel to Malaysia because the country interests me and I want to see the Twin Towers (the Petronas Towers).”

For the young Nyiyaparli woman, studying hard at school and having a goal is an example that she wants to set for other Aboriginal students. According to the 2011 census, 25 percent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people completed year 12 or equivalent in Australia in 2011. “There are scholarships that are available to Aboriginal people and amazing opportunities. If you make use of the resources available and the opportunities offered to you, you can achieve your dreams.” “The greatest thing is if Aboriginal students can do well they can break those racist stereotypes that others have of Aboriginal people,” she said. It is her own Aboriginal background that she attributes to giving her drive to studying hard in school. For now, she hopes that one day she will be able to use a law degree to give back to the community and help Aboriginal people who do not have easy access to legal facilities.

Gumala Aboriginal Corporation scholarships are currently provided to over 80 Gumala students (Members/ Beneficiaries) in order to assist in their goals of outstanding achievements in their chosen fields. This includes academic (school, undergraduate and postgraduate), the arts, music and sport.

Brock’s aspiration of being a pilot also stems to his growing collection of commercial plane models such as Qantas, Jets Star, Tiger and Virgin airlines which he says he either buys on Ebay or at the airport.

Brock Parker pictured beside his aunty Natalie Parker

FUTURE GOALS

Year 12 student Karri Walker

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Praise for Gumala’s three out-going Directors Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) wishes to whole-heartedly thank our three out-going Directors whose appointments end on December 24, 2012. We thank each of you for your important contributions and hard work on the Board, as well as the invaluable guidance and wisdom each of you have provided to the Board.

David Stock

Doreen James

Archie Tucker

DIRECTOR

ELDER

Innawonga

Banyjima

Doreen has served on previous GAC Boards and is also the current Chairperson of Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation.

Archie is a long-standing member of the Board and a former Chairman. He was born at Giralia Station and grew up in Wittenoom with his brother and two sisters. He is a hands-on man that has always worked tirelessly in the communities.

Nyiyaparli David is from traditional Nyiyaparli land in Mount Newman. David has served on previous GAC Boards, and has also been a long-time heritage survey adviser to Rio Tinto. One of David’s life-long passions has been the preservation of traditional culture, heritage and language.

Doreen is a traditional and proud Innawonga Elder and resides in Tom Price.

Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s three newly elected Directors, Roy Tommy (Innawonga), Susan Bung (Nyiyaparli) and Karen Tommy (Banyjima) join the nine existing Board Members on the GAC Board: Stephen Peterson, Chairman (Nyiyaparli), Stuart Ingie Snr, Deputy Chairman (Innawonga), David MacLean, Secretary (Banyjima), Slim Parker (Banyjima), Keith Hall (Nyiyaparli), Nicholas Cook (Innawonga), Natalie Parker (Nyiyaparli), Shane Derschow (Banyjima) and Cecil Parker (Innawonga).

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Nyiyaparli artist takes inspiration from family history & the Pilbara A well-known Gumala Member and Aboriginal artist took her paintings to the world stage in Port Hedland in October. Arron Yarran travelled to the coastal town to showcase her artwork to the first of many international tourists arriving in the Pilbara by cruise ships this summer.

heart. Sitting in the bush is tranquil and peaceful. It’s really beautiful. I get inspired by the colours, the feeling of being in the bush and the strong living culture.”

“It was a good learning curve when I went to meet the cruise ships. There are more trips planned for the coming year. “

This year Arron has worked with Gumala to facilitate the development of her business. In August Arron went on a road trip from Perth to Port Hedland where she pitched her artwork to local galleries and outlets and held a stall in the Shire of Port Hedland to market her artwork.

Arron is a humble Nyiyaparli woman who wears many hats: Mother/Grandmother, youth worker, nationally qualified trainer and artist.

Outside of working on her business Arron has been back in the classroom teaching art at Swan View Primary school to seven to twelve year olds.

Arron has always had a passion for art and has sold art works that have gone all over the world. In addition to being a professional artist, Arron has a long history of working with people in a variety of settings.

The children are inspired to tell their story through art and realise

the importance that education plays in their lives. “I get them to write their story out first and then I encourage them to paint their story.” “When I see people with the skills to do art, I get emotional,” she added. Next June Arron plans to hold an exhibition ‘The Stolen Ones’ at Kings Park. The exhibition will focus on the Stolen Generation with stories inspired by her family history including those of her Mother and Grandmother. Arron’s Grandmother was stolen from Roy Hill and put in Mogumba in the Moore River settlement. Her Mother was stolen from Geraldton and put into Sister Kate’s Homes.

She ran a series of very successful art projects with young Indigenous people who had solvent abuse issues. This resulted in many of them making positive changes to their behaviours. She also managed an urban art project with young graffiti artists, delivered a ground breaking art project run by Aboriginal women for Aboriginal women in Bandyup prison, designed and ran school based art classes with truant children and numerous other art related projects with youth at risk. Arron also volunteers with the elderly when time permits. Arron has numerous art works for sale in galleries throughout Perth and with many sold through the Kings Park Art Gallery. Her artwork is inspired by her family history and the people and the scenery in the Pilbara. “It’s hard to describe going up to my country. It really gets into my

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Footy star pays a special visit to fellow Gumala Traditional Owner A young Gumala Member received a special visit from a very special AFL footy star while recovering from a serious car accident in Shenton Park hospital in October. Banyjima teenager, Kyle Eaton, was a happy patient when he received a special visit from fellow Gumala Beneficiary and professional footballer Gerrick Weedon. Kyle was in Shenton Park hospital in Perth for two months following

a car accident in Roebourne which could have claimed his life. He was hit by a car and suffered major injuries including a broken leg, pelvis, arm and wrist. Kyle’s mother, Gumala Member Denise Smith, said that Gerrick’s visit lifted her son’s spirits. Before the accident Kyle was studying at Carmel College in Perth (on a Gumala scholarship) and was a talented football player. Gerrick sat and talked to Kyle in hospital for a couple of hours

and presented him with a signed Eagles shirt.

THE ROAD TO RECOVERY Kyle’s recovery in hospital initially hindered his bones from healing due to stressing about his recovery, the lack of having his friends around and the hospital food that he didn’t particularly like. Kyle’s mother Denise had cooked up and brought in some food to the hospital to ensure that he was eating. Denise said that while in the hospital she noticed that another boy in the ward seemed to have a quicker recovery by having his friends around him. “So we flew a couple of Kyle’s friends to Perth to see him. It did help... he was healed within a week,” said Denise.

ON THE MEND In mid-October Kyle returned to his home in Roebourne. While he will not be able to return to school in Perth until next year, he was able to keep up with his school work in hospital with a laptop and school books which were provided by Gumala. However, the enthusiastic footballer will not be able to return to the field for another six to twelve months. Denise said: “I’m very grateful to Gumala and their staff for their support, including phone calls to check on Kyle’s recovery.”

Gumala Member and footy star Gerrick Weedon presents Gumala Beneficiary Kyle Eaton with a signed West Coast Eagles shirt at Shenton Park hospital

Denise is also thankful to her partner, Troy Eaton’s family, in particular, his grandmother Doris Eaton and older cousin brother Renan Eaton, for supporting Kyle during his lonely time in hospital.”

GUMALA NEWS

CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION

A passion for helping others drives young nursing student As the spotlight continues to focus on the health of Aboriginal people, one Gumala Member has been working hard towards a nursing qualification at an Aboriginal registered training organisation this year.

medical world, Reuben also was given a big eye opener during his time as the Chairperson for the Kids After Dark program in Meekatharra.

First year nursing student, Rueben Robinson, has been studying towards a Diploma in Nursing at Marr Mooditj, a registered training organisation that specialises in health care courses for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Kids After Dark is the first of its kind. Funded by Rio Tinto, the program helps youth at risk. Every Thursday and Saturday night, volunteers find youth wondering the streets after dark and take them to a safe house where they talk to them about why they are out late and try to figure out what is going on at home.

The Diploma in Nursing is a fulltime 18 month course which runs in three week blocks and gives students a two to three week break to return to their communities. The course is packaged with lectures Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm and six practicals (prac) at hospitals across Perth which consists of nine hour shifts. Marr Mooditj is equipped with on-going support for its students including a nurse mentor and team leader visits on practicals, study groups and lectures. Accommodation is provided on the campus whilst the students are studying. “Being on prac and having the one-on-one patient contact, talking to them, and then seeing them getting better is definitely the best part of nursing. It is what makes my studies to be a nurse worth it,” said Reuben.

HELPING YOUTH AT RISK

The volunteers also assist in communicating with the families to find a solution to any problems at home. The children have an option to stay at the safe house for a night and are given breakfast in the morning before being sent off to school. “The kids gave me the confidence to interact with people and to know how to deal with different situations including juvenile kids and justice kids. It was an eye opener at such a young age,” he said. A life lesson he says has made

Reuben first discovered his calling for nursing when he was working as a Liaison Officer and a volunteer ambulance paramedic at Meekatharra hospital in 2009.

Today at 25, the young Banyjima man has discovered that education, hard work and commitment will help you achieve your goals and get you where you want to be in life. “It doesn’t matter how old you are. My class has a range of people from all over Western Australia and different ages ranging from 17-60 years old. Anybody who wants to study, do what you want to do and do not let anyone stop you.” However, he realises that for many people undertaking a full time course is not always easy due to family commitments and the ability to go back to school and take up full-time study. Already in his first year of nursing he has seen many class mates struggle and leave the course for different reasons. “The first six months were the hardest. We started the year with a class size of 20 people and now we are down to seven within nine months. If you can make it past block four (medications), then it is easier.” Many people who want to study are put off by the idea because they have young children at home. However, Rueben advises that if they do have family support back at home to mind the children while they are away studying in Perth, then it is easier. Rueben will graduate in June next year but he doesn’t plan to stop there. Following his Diploma, he plans to start an 18 month full-time Registered Nursing Degree.

“Helping out with emergencies and resuscitations in the ambulance was an adrenaline rush but dealing with death is the hardest part of the job,” he said. Whilst his experience at Meekatharra hospital gave him an initial calling and insight into the

him more empathetic towards his patients.

Rueben Robinson

He says after he has completed his studies he wants to spend a year remote nursing in the Northern Territory and then head overseas to Vietnam and Africa as a volunteer nurse.

GUMALA NEWS

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Member Services notices Privacy and security of information The privacy and security of Gumala Members’ information is of utmost importance to Gumala Aboriginal Corporation. For this reason, when you call the Member Solutions Team, security information (password and date of birth) is required before we can discuss your application. All Members must be mindful that the Member Solutions Team are not able to discuss any details or information about another Member.

GUMALA NEWS

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Young Banyjima woman takes out Pilbara Girl 2012 title

Christmas Office closure Gumala Aboriginal Corporation wishes to advise all Members that our offices will be closed for several days during the Christmas and New Year period. We will be closed from Friday December 21 at noon, and will re-open for business as usual on Monday January 7 2013. For EMERGENCIES only, please call 1800 486 252 and leave a message.

The only exception to this is if a Member provides specific written authority to Gumala for another Member to act on their behalf.

Processing efficiencies During the period 1st July to 31st October 2012 Gumala’s Member Solutions Team has received 6773 applications from Gumala members. The Member Solutions Team strive to process applications from Members within seven working days and during this period approximately 90 per cent of applications were finalised within this seven day timeframe. In addition our Member Solutions Team receives, on average, 200-300 phone calls each day. The Member Service Team is therefore an extremely busy place and we would like to thank all Members for their patience and understanding during these busy periods.

Members advised to get Lore applications in early Gumala Members who wish to apply for Lore & Culture funding during Lore Time are advised to submit their applications in advance. Any applications that are received at the last minute run the risk of not getting approved in time.

A young Banyjima woman was crowned Pilbara Girl 2012 at the annual Pilbara Girl competition in Karratha in August.

was going to win I just went there to have fun, learn new things and experience modelling,” said LisaMarie.

Gumala Member, Lisa-Marie Rodd (16), took out the competition ahead of eight other finalists in the contest.

Lisa-Marie’s grandmother, Kaye White, said: “Lisa-Marie’s mum and I were definitely over the moon when she was announced the winner. We can’t express how proud we were of her.”

It is the first year that the year 11 Karratha Senior High School student has entered in the competition and has now become the first Karratha girl to win the competition since it started in 2004. Lisa-Marie who is regarded by her friends and family to be of a placid and reserved nature said that entering into the competition has increased her confidence, given her life skills, grooming and development confidence and has provided her with the opportunity to be a role model to other Indigenous girls in Australia. “I don’t know how to explain it, I was really shocked. I didn’t expect my name to be called out. I was just sitting there and I was so happy and excited. I didn’t think I

The competition is designed to target young Indigenous women between 16 and 25 to build their confidence, host structured workshops and events about contemporary issues including helping contestants to overcome the impact of social, economic, and isolation disadvantages and

to bring the community together. Incidentally, each contestant wore a dress that was designed by Gumala Member and fashion designer, Lilla Gagliano. Since being crowned Pilbara Girl 2012, Lisa-Marie has gained exposure to the modelling world, having done modelling for Kandina Designs in August. She has also attended events around Australia to represent the Pilbara and to encourage other Indigenous girls. In October she made a visit to Broome and she also attended Kimberley Girl to tell them about what it was like to be Pilbara girl, and to inspire the other Indigenous girls. “I want to encourage the other girls to not be shy and just be yourself and build your confidence up.” For now, alongside being a role model and Pilbara Girl 2012, LisaMarie wants to focus on the last two years of her schooling and eventually study at University to become a veterinary nurse. Photos courtesy of Goolarri Media.

GUMALA NEWS

CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION

Yandi Mine crowned with international safety award Rio Tinto has been awarded the Chief Executive Safety Award for its Yandicoogina Iron Ore mine. In announcing the safety awards, which were awarded to two of Rio Tinto’s global mining sites, Rio Tinto Chief Executive Tom Albanese said the award recognises the exceptional safety culture exemplified by a passion for and dedication to zero harm. “The outstanding quality of this year’s nominations made the task of judging so difficult that we have decided to award the main Chief Executive Safety Award jointly. Our first winner of this award, Yandicoogina, was felt to have a deeply embedded culture that everyone can help make a difference,” Mr Albanese said. “The 13 nominations were submitted by a product group chief executive or functional head – each in recognition of these sites’ excellent performance and strong zero harm safety culture. “An assessment panel, made up of senior leaders from across the business, visited each of the nominated sites, before passing their recommendations on to me. In evaluating the sites, the panel reviewed safety performance data, but were also especially interested in the strength of the locations’ safety culture and leadership.

Since the Yandi Land Use Agreement was signed in 1997, a strategic partnership has been forged and strengthened between Rio Tinto and Gumala Aboriginal Corporation. Gumala’s Members are the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Yandicoogina (Yandi) mine operates.

GUMALA NEWS

Life changing artistic outlet sets Kaye on an exciting new path There are many talented Members amongst our Membership, some of which have been fortunate enough to unexpectedly discover life changing creative outlets that have set them on a new path…. GAC Member, Kaye Jones (married name), or better known as Kaye White (Traditional Owner and artist name), unlocked a life changing creative outlet when she moved to Karratha three years ago. Unbeknown to Kaye, for several years she had been secretly harbouring away an artistic talent that would see her become an up-coming artist, selling out of her artwork at Rio Tinto’s art exhibition this year. Kaye first discovered her artistic flair when she and her daughter, Sally White, both decided to try their hands at canvas painting.

“What they found at each site was evidence of hard work, passion and an outstanding commitment to safety improvements and innovation. They are an inspiration to us all.”

Above: a recent aerial shot of the Yandi mine (image courtesy of Rio Tinto) Below: Current GAC Deputy Chairman Stuart Ingie Snr, current GAC CEO Steve Mav, and former GAC Chairman Darren Injie - image captured at the Yandi mine in March 2010 by current GAC Chairman Stephen Peterson

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“I just thought I would buy some canvas and try my hand at it. I started off painting with a paint brush and was constantly looking for new designs and shapes,” said Kaye. “The paintings were a bit shaky at first but after awhile I got better and the paintings improved.”

For Kaye, painting also became an outlet where she could channel the energy from the everyday grind into a painting. “It channels my energy from a negative day to having a good day. When I sit down and I paint it gets me into a happy, relaxed mood. It helps me to stay positive and gives me confidence that I am doing something good that I love.” “Looking at the end result and the colours is what I love about painting and what inspires me the most.” Today the humble Banyjima woman is a full time artist. While she doesn’t see painting as her full time work, instead merely calling it a “hobby art”, she has managed to go from strength to strength. Over the last two years Kaye has moved away from the paint brush and taken up tooth pick patterns. In September of this year, Kaye featured four pieces of her artwork in Rio Tinto’s ‘Colour of the Country’ art exhibition in Perth. This included exhibiting two emu eggs, which was her first trial run of tooth pick painting on emu eggs.

Within the first week of the opening of the exhibition, all four of her pieces sold out. “I was so excited to know that people love my work.” Kaye attributes her success to artistic role model Patricia Floyd at Yinjaa-Barni Art. Several months after she began painting, Kaye and Sally both got up enough courage to take half a dozen framed canvases to Patricia. “We were sitting in the car together for a while before we went in because we were both really nervous. I told Sally to go in first but we eventually ended up getting the courage to go in together.” When they went inside the well known Yinjaa-Barni artist picked a canvas each and instructed the new-found artists to go home and paint a bigger one. “That’s how it all started,” said Kaye. Three years on from when Kaye first picked up a paint brush, she wants to continue painting and have more paintings ready for the next exhibition Yinjaa-Barni art has in 2013.

Yandi Facts Mining at Yandicoogina was originally approved in 1997. The project is Rio Tinto’s biggest operating iron ore mine in Australia, producing up to 60 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa). The upcoming Yandi Phase 2 works will include: • developing Junction South West deposit • construction of new 28Mtpa wet processing plant at Junction South East and associated infrastructure to allow below water table mining • upgrades to existing Junction Central dry plant • expansion of existing Yandi construction camp and permanent village and associated works and services

• Junction South West to replace Junction Central mine

Artist Kaye White (Jones) with one of her paintings

One of Kaye’s painting (pictured above) featured as artwork in Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s 2012 Annual Report

GUMALA NEWS

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GUMALA NEWS

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Letters of appreciation from Members The following letters of appreciation were recently sent to Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) by Gumala Members.

Dear GAC, I would like to share this positive story with you. I had a phone call from my daughter yesterday, Cassandra Jevdenijevic who lives in the NT. Cassandra had good news to tell me, which is unusual as Cassandra recently lost all her vision from a disease and is now legally blind. Cassandra’s 15 year old son, my eldest grandson, Dennis had a phone call from his rugby coach and was selected for recruitment training and development for the Cowboys Rugby League Club. The development and training will be with the NT Rugby League. What a proud moment for Dennis. This is a young man who is the primary carer for his mother and youngest brother, Jayden, who is nine years old. Dennis has done a marvellous job caring for his family. Dennis is listed with the NT Carers Association; I was amazed when I attended a meeting with my grandson, and the NT Carers Association on how many young people who are primary carers of adults or younger siblings.

The NT Carers Association assists the young carers to join sports and recreation, and education to ensure that these young people have the same opportunities as others. Dennis attends the Palmerston Senior College, year 10, and is part of Clontarf Football Academy, and recently played in the NT Cup which is an Indigenous program. Dennis was recently selected from his club the Palmerston Raiders to play in the Nationals to represent the NT in the 15 yrs, rugby league, against all the other states.

To whom it may concern, I am writing on behalf of myself (Rachel Thomas) and my son Kieran Thomas. I have been very lucky in being given two very bright boys that have always excelled academically. Many a time I have been frightened for their future education and wondering as a single Mum if I could even come close to giving their bright minds what they require.

Dennis is the grandson of Evelyn Kroczek (nee Crowe) and greatgrandson of Irene Coffin.

Children like Kieran and Jamie can quite easily become targets of bullying because of the way they conduct themselves and it is noticeably different to a normal mainstream child.

I would like this opportunity to say thank you to GAC who sponsors Dennis under the Sports (Scholarship) Program.

I have always had fears whether I have the ability to see them through, to help them meet their full potential.

Thanks for funding Dennis which has enabled him to play rugby league, which has given my grandson this fantastic career opportunity.

Thank you to the Gumala staff and their ability to always make me feel able to approach you all on many different issues. I have found my fears subside dramatically.

The NT won the competition by winning against WA in the finals.

Kind Regards, Evelyn Kroczek, Nyiyaparli

I want to thank Gumala Aboriginal Corporation and staff endlessly for the support you have given me over the last twelve months in seeing my son Kieran thrive because of the high standard of education he has been lucky to receive by the funding given to us by Gumala.

Dear Gumala Aboriginal Corporation, Thank you once again for your support this year. Without your contribution towards exhibitor stands and accommodation my attendance at the Fashion Exposed Melbourne Exhibition August 26-28 would not have been possible. Thank you also for the initial funding of computer and software that was also fundamental in the preparation for the exhibition.

because of the financial situation I am pleased to say I have picked up three retail buyers and one fashion agent, making the exhibition very successful for what we wanted to achieve. In the next few months I will be following up on other buyers from the exhibition and contacting stores nationally and hopefully pick up some more retail buyers.

I am very grateful for the support you have offered me in the development of my business Kaninda Pty Ltd. I know that without your support I would not have been able to achieve my goals this year. Sincerely, Lilla Gagliano, Gumala Member

I was able to successfully launch a new website, produce my own images for the site and develop marketing material and lookbooks in time for the exhibition. The exhibition itself was a great learning experience. I was able to network with fashion agents, photographers, manufacturers and other designers. And although there were low attendance records from buyers

How to contact Gumala News

Lilla Gagliano

Any Gumala Members who have a great yarn to tell about themselves or their loved ones, please feel free to contact us so that we can share it with the rest of the Gumala community. Please contact Gumala’s PR & Communications team on 1800 486 252.

My household runs a lot smoother in more areas than I even realised. I can’t express the thanks I would like to give to the wonderful staff that I have dealt with on a regular basis and wish you all the best for the future. Dennis (doing the “number one” signal) pictured with his rugby team

Sincerely, Rachel Thomas

GUMALA NEWS

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“Karijini Reflection” symbolises water, earth and sky An artistic piece of photography selected this year for the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) 2012 Annual Report front and back cover conveys important symbolic meanings.

Bronwyn Houston’s book, Staircase to the Moon, was showcased to the public at the Broome Multipurpose Arts Centre in November.

Elly: “Reflections are always interesting to look at, whether it’s reflections on glass, reflections in a rain puddle or in this case in a water hole. “This reflection was captured at Kalamina Gorge at Karijini National Park.

“What drew my attention to this reflection were the colours from the surrounding landscape; the sky, the earth (rock formations) all merging and blending into some sort of abstract oil painting on water.

“There was a slight warm breeze sending small ripples across the surface, gently pushing the blue, bronze, red, greens, gold, orange and white into each other. “In most cultures water, earth and sky are very important elements and all signify an important part of our existence. “They all play a different role but

when they come together like this reflection in the water hole, the elements blended into one. Gumala means all together.” Elly, who worked as part of the Member Solutions Team and is now working for Gumala Radio, is also a talented photographer who has contributed many photos for Gumala publications.

The play was a local production of the story which was inspired by the natural phenomena that occurs over Roebuck Bay in Broome each year when the moon shines over the bay and creates a ladder like illusion over the mudflats at low tide. The main characters, a young girl, Rosie, and her grandfather, are based upon Bronwyn as a young girl and her grandfather. The story follows their journey together through the landscapes of Northern WA including mangroves, frangipani and giant boab trees to climb the staircase to the moon. In fact, Rosie is based on Bronwyn as a young girl and her grandfather.

Practical from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander School of Music in 1993. She is also the Chairperson of the Indigenous Arts Board for The Department for Culture & the Arts WA, and is one of the co-founders of Marrugeku Company. It was the first time she has written music for a play. “It was great. For me as a musician and a writer, it was my first time writing a musical score on my own. It was also great to see and hear other people playing it especially for theatre so it was a new experience for me. It was great working with the kids and today everyone still comes up to me in the shops and tells me how great the show was,” said Lorrae. Lorrae is now thinking about releasing a sound track of the Staircase to the Moon.

THE BOOK

Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s 2012 Annual Report has been nominated for the prestigious Australasian Reporting Awards.

THE PLAY ADAPTATION

The Staircase to the Moon book was released in 2011 and has sold over 3,000 copies per year and is currently in its second print run.

“The play was a really good adaptation of the book. I thought it was very well done. The kids loved it and the adults got a good laugh out of it,” said Bronwyn.

Electronic copies of our current and past Annual Reports are available for download via our website:

While it is Bronwyn’s first book that she has written and illustrated herself, it is her second book that she has published through Magabala books.

The play adaption of the book featured local actors including Bronwyn’s aunt and GAC Member, Lorrae Coffin who was the Musical Director for the play.

Magabala books are a not-forprofit Indigenous publishing company in Broome which actively seeks Indigenous stories to publish Australia wide.

A multi-instrumentalist, Lorrae, in her own right, is a renowned composer, musician and performer in the Indigenous music industry.

“Magabala books paid for everything. I would encourage other GAC Members who feel they have a story to tell to get it published.

Lorrae was one of the first to graduate with an Associate Diploma in Music Theory and

Magabala books were really helpful and they work closely with illustrators and authors.

www.gumala.com.au

Elly Lukale holding a copy of the 2012 Annual Report, featuring her front and back cover wrap-around image, “Karijini Reflection”.

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Gumala Member’s children’s book debuts in theatre A talented illustrator, author and Gumala Member’s successful children’s book has been adapted into a play for the first time since it was published.

The photograph, which was taken by GAC staff member Elly Lukale, is a snap shot of a reflection in a waterhole at Karijini National Park.

“It was a steaming December day and being near the water was a nice, calm, cool feeling.

GUMALA NEWS

Hard copies are available by visiting our Tom Price or Perth offices or by calling us on: 1800 486 252.

Whether it’s a history story or a children’s book, it doesn’t have to be perfect, they will help you with publishing it.”

UP AND COMING FULL TIME AUTHOR Bronwyn holds a certificate in art and design from TAFE and a graphic design degree and fell into writing and illustrating when she worked at Magabala books. As a full-time Mum of two young children, Summer (3 years ) and Ben (19 months), Bronwyn has had to juggle a full time writing career around her children’s schedule. “I usually fit my creative time in around our busy schedule and nap times but on Tuesday’s I get a whole day to do the creative stuff when the children are with their Nana” However, she says her inspiration and story ideas mainly come from her children. “My children love reading so I notice what books aren’t available to read and I write them. I also draw inspiration from things they do because I think well if they do that they can’t be the only kids that do that. Then other children reading my books will be able to identify with the characters in the book based on things kids do.”

UP-COMING BOOK: 2013 Earlier this year Bronwyn illustrated her third book, ‘My Home Broome,’ written by Tamzyne Richardson. She is now gearing up to begin writing a fourth book at the end of the year. “The book is about counting in the garden and it will feature different Australian insects and wildlife including Galahs and it should be released next year!”

GUMALA NEWS

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GUMALA NEWS

Gumala Elder Claude Cox reveals insight into his colourful life A Gumala Elder sat down to share his story with Gumala News last month. Innawonga Elder, Claude Cox, is one of many respected Elders in the Gumala Membership. A charismatic man, Claude is always happy to sit and talk with Gumala staff and fellow Members. However, if you talk to Claude long enough one will discover the moving and inspirational story he has to share. Claude was born in Nanutarra Station. The third eldest, he was one of four children. His mother was from Rockley Station and his father was a Traditional Owner from Jigalong. Claude’s connection to Innawonga country lies through his grandfather, Traditional Owner Frank Cox.

Growing up, Claude was the eldest brother to his sister, Gumala Member, Nancy Ashburton. Sadly, when he was younger he was the only sibling to see his older brother, David, who has sadly passed away. Gumala Member and oldest brother Ken lives in Darwin. “I used to be the big brother to my younger sister. I used to sing to her the song, ‘come on baby, let’s go home”, said Claude. Like many Aboriginal Elders, when he was five or six his mother put him in Carnarvon Mission. However, unlike other children who were taken from their homeland and families, Claude’s story has a memorable twist. He was fortunate enough to be able to maintain a close bond and connection to his mother as she worked in the laundry at the

mission. “I was really close to my mum. I didn’t know my Dad in those days and she worked in the laundry at the mission so I would see her and she would sneak me treats.” Having his mother at the Mission is a special memory imprinted in his mind. Although he was at the Mission she was able to still teach and discipline him. “My mother did everything for me. She paid for my education. She used to tell me off. If I didn’t tidy up my things or do the dishes or made a mess, she told me off.”

ONE WAY TICKET BACK TO THE HOMELAND When Claude was fourteen or fifteen he ran away from the missionary. “They asked where I was going and I said I was going for a walk. That was it, I was gone. I had a one way ticket out of there.” His mother at the time was in Onslow. Claude followed the river, surviving on fish and turtles and then followed the Moore River Road hitching rides from passing cars from Carnarvon to Onslow. “I walked in the river and followed the flow of the river. I worked out if I walked in the water, nobody can follow my footprints.” Interestingly, Jigalong Traditional Owners, Molly, Daisy and Gracie from the Rabbit Proof Fence movie are Claude’s aunties.

THE PILBARA IN THE 1960s: RECONNECTING TO THE HOMELAND

Gumala Elder Claude Cox

When Claude returned to his homeland in the mid-1960s, the Pilbara was a different ‘country’ compared to the Pilbara of today. There were no mining companies, the towns were policed and

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Garry Parker joins the Gumala team everyone had to work, with many people taking up jobs on cattle stations. “In those days everyone had to work. The police would come around and ask if you were working. If you weren’t working they would put you in jail for three months for begancy. We used to hide from the police when we saw them coming. We would duck around the corners, in trees, in the river and in pools. They didn’t see us.” With the law stating that all Aboriginal people had to work, Claude had to learn how to ride a horse in order to gain a job on the cattle stations. He gained his first job at Manutarra Station (his birth place), near Onslow where he reunited with his mother. “She didn’t know I was coming. It was a surprise.”

FINDING HIS PARENTS He later got a job at Mount Vernon Station where he was taught by a saddler how to plat and do leather work. He stayed on the station and became the head stockman. However, someone was still missing from his life...his father. In the late 1960s when he was about 17 or 18 years old, he started to make inquiries into his father’s whereabouts. His inquiries led him to Ethel Creek Station where his father was working as a stockman. “I saw this huge guy walking towards me and I thought ‘who is this guy?’. He asked me who I was looking for and I said my father and he said, ‘Come here my son.’ He gave me a huge hug. I never knew my father until then.” Whilst Claude never knew his father until he was a late teenager, he has been blessed to father his own daughter, Gumala Member, Claudine Cox.

Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) Member Garry Parker joined GAC earlier this year as the new Indigenous Liaison Officer. He has a solid background in cultural knowledge. Originally from the Pilbara, Garry is a traditional Banyjima man who grew up and worked on Peedamulla Station. Before joining Gumala, Garry worked at the Tom Price mine for Rio Tinto as an Earth Works Operator at the plant. As the Indigenous Liaison Officer, Garry wants to see several positive outcomes for the Banyjima, Innawonga and Nyiyaparli peoples. This includes positive outcomes in the communities and Lore camps for the benefit of the Banyjima, Innawonga and Nyiyaparli peoples. He also wishes to promote and encourage cultural education for young members in order to maintain and continue the traditional culture and heritage.

“I have one daughter, Claudine. She is my special angel,” he said with a twinkle in his eye.

CLAUDE’S ADVICE Claude has seen the changes occur in the Pilbara over the years. Yet, his advice to the younger generation is simple: “Don’t drink too much. If you don’t drink too much it keeps the body in good shape. Stay healthy. I walk for exercise. Watch your diet, don’t eat too much sugar, take-away food and don’t drink too much

GAC’s Indigenous Liaison Officer, Garry Parker

Garry also wants to educate the wider community about Aboriginal culture and heritage in order to create a greater understanding of the history, people, culture and heritage in order to close the gap between Indigenous Australians and nonIndigenous Australians.

alcohol. It increases your risk of diabetes. Eat lots of vegetables and good meat and it will decrease your risk of diabetes.”

ADVICE FOR THOSE GOING THROUGH LORE IN 2012 With Lore starting for the summer, Claude’s advice for the young Members going through Lore is: “Keep strong. Once you have finished Lore, stay strong and keep your head high. Do as the Elders tell you to do and there will be no problems.”

GUMALA NEWS

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Gumala reaches out with Ear Health Radio Campaign by GAC’s Indigenous Coordinator Mentor Pilbara, Ronnelle Hicks

Gumala Aboriginal Corporation has been a part of the National Indigenous Ear Health Campaign funded by the Department of Health and Ageing called “Care for Kids’ which aims to increase the awareness of Otitis Media (OM) and loss of hearing in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Otitis Media is a significant problem in Australia, especially with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Some studies suggest that up to 91per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in remote communities present with Otitis Media (more often called ‘ear infections’). Left untreated, ear infections can lead to hearing loss which may limit a child’s capacity to develop socially and emotionally. Ear infections can also adversely affect educational outcomes.

Tom Price Primary School. The campaign also involved one of our local senior high schools. The ear bus, which conducts ear screenings, was also visiting schools during the campaign and Gumala Radio also promoted the great service that the ear bus provides to our Aboriginal children in schools. Tom Price Senior High School students attending the Tom Price Enrichment Centre provided key health message of awareness to the younger generations in the Primary years to take care of their ears at an early age and to be positive role models within our local community. The campaign’s main focus was to provide awareness of ear health and to endorse the main symptoms and preventions. Gumala Radio’s objective was to conduct pre-recordings of

key ear health messages to inform Gumala members and the wider community people. By broadcasting over Gumala Radio we can reach out to all Gumala listeners within the local community and wider surrounding communities throughout the Pilbara. Gumala Aboriginal Corporation provided a BBQ lunch and distributed ear health information and ear care bags to the schools and acknowledged the support of the students who conducted a prerecording ear health messages for the campaign. A big thank you to all the children and community people who were involved in the Gumala Ear Health Campaign.

encourage community participation.

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Radio can be used as a powerful tool for communication into the Gumala and the wider community to explore and speak about issues and current events that are relevant to its listeners and bring communities together.

Gumala Radio wants your voice Gumala Radio is looking at expanding its programming in 2013 and providing fresh new content.

If you would like to get involved to explore and speak about Gumala Radio is a beacon for For this to be successful Gumala Radio would like to extend an invitation to any Gumala member promoting Indigenous news, issues and current events that are in any way, whether it is through or community any story or topics that they would like to hear on the culture, stories and localmember music that has relevant to itsideas listeners and bring participating in a program, being to the communities of Tom Price, radio. communities together. interviewed or providing ideas Paraburdoo, Bellary Springs, about stories and programming Gumala lookingthrough at Wakuthuni, Youngaleena, If you would likeOnslow to get involved in anyRadio way,iswhether participating in a program, being please feel free to send your expanding its programming in and Roebourne. interviewed or providing ideas about stories and programming please feel free to send your requests through to radio@ 2013 and providing fresh new The aim of a community radio requests through to radio@gumala.com.au for consideration or if you have any feedback about gumala.com.au for consideration content. station is not only to provide or if you have any feedback about our programming. local content for its listeners For this to be successful Gumala our programming. but also encourage community Radio would like to extend Gumala Radio will be closing midday, 24th December 2012anand re-opening Monday 7th January participation. We would like to wish you all a invitation to any Gumala Members 2013. We would like to wish you all a very safe and Merry Christmas and stay tuned to Gumala very safe and Merry Christmas or community members that have Radio can be used as a powerful Radio in 2013. and stay tuned to Gumala Radio in any story ideas or topics that they tool for communication into the would like to hear on the radio. 2013. Gumala and wider community

Gumala Broadcaster John "Tadam" Lockyer

Listen to Gumala Radio Live at www.gumala.com.au

As a part of the campaign Gumala Radio was involved by visiting our Aboriginal communities of Wakuthuni, Youngaleena and Bellary Springs where ear health sessions were conducted by Health Professional (Community Nurses). During these sessions information was provided to parents and carers as well as children in these local remote communities. Our local Community Nurses in Tom Price also ensured that the right and appropriate messages were being communicated to our communities and have been a great support to the campaign. The Gumala Ear Health Campaign team also visited schools within the Shire of Ashburton. The schools that were involved are as follows: Onslow Primary School, Paraburdoo Primary School and

Gumala children photographed during

the Ear Health Campaign: (L-R) – Keelan Hayden, Johnell Jones and Jada Whalebone

GUMALA NEWS

CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION

Gumala Member’s consultancy firm secures contract with a Pilbara Registered Training Organisation A GAC Member’s HR consultancy enterprise has gone from strength to strength this year, having successfully secured an auspicing arrangement with a Pilbara based Registered Training Organisation.

to more accredited training which is where my passion lies. I love being able to show people what skills they have. I love seeing people excel and build self-confidence and gain qualifications.”

Nyiyaparli Traditional Owner, Jahna Cedar’s business, Cedar Consultancy Enterprises, secured a contract with a Registered Training Organisation in Port Hedland earlier this year to deliver accredited training through the organisation’s scope.

MULTI-AWARD WINNER In March this year, Jahna was inducted into the International Women’s Day WA Women’s Hall of Fame 2012. The induction was recognition that Jahna has been a stand-out supporter for her community, having sat on boards and committees.

PROVIDING INDIGENOUS PEOPLE WITH ACCESS TO TRAINING As the Principal Consultant for Cedar Consultancy Enterprises, Jahna intends to enable Indigenous people in the Pilbara to access accredited training in Diploma Management, Cert IV Front Line Management and Diploma of OHS, Rail Infrastructure training as well as plant and machinery operation. Two years ago Jahna and her husband Richard, started up their Indigenous owned and operated HR Enterprise, which specialises in the creation and delivery of non-accredited and accredited training. “The business started because I could see a gap in the market at a time when there was a lot of projects happening in the Pilbara. There were limited resources on who could advise at the grassroots level about the community. They were out-sourcing people from Perth to come in and tell our communities what we already knew. “It was also at a time in my life where starting my own business

Talented and driven Gumala Member Jahna Cedar

would tackle the flexibility of being a Mum and working,” said Jahna. This year Jahna has celebrated several successes including the introduction of a Pilbara specific cultural diversity training package including Torres Strait and Aboriginal culture for people in the workforce.

COMMUNITY LEADER Jahna is a strong Indigenous community leader who has devoted herself to promoting equal employment opportunities for Indigenous peoples through her company. Since she started her own business, the mother of two has become the face for inspiring jobseekers in the Pilbara. “Since the company started, it has moved from HR and consultancy

Last year Jahna was named NAIDOC person of the year – Port Hedland, and was nominated for 2012 Australian of the Year. In 2011, she represented Australia at the United Nations in New York for the Commission on the Status of Women. In August, Jahna presented a speech outlining the importance of cultural diversity and appreciation within the workplace at the Indigenous Employment and Economic Development forum in Hedland. Alongside developing her business, Jahna has been working part-time as a Project Manager at the Centre for Excellence in Rail Training in Perth. For now, she says the next step in the new year is to develop her business, increase her marketing, secure-long term contracts and go-full time in her own office space.

GUMALA NEWS

CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION

Desert Feet rocks Youngaleena and Wakuthuni Touring educational children’s band, Desert Feet, made a star appearance in two Pilbara communities earlier this year. Youngaleena and Wakuthuni children were serenaded by the band in a special educational concert about diabetes at the end of Desert Feet’s mid-year tour. A concert with children in Youngaleena was held on 24 July, 2012 and with the children at Gumala’s Early Childhood Centre at Wakuthuni on 27 and 28 July, 2012. Gumala Members, Jacintha Stevens, Alicia Stevens, Zyndel

Parker, Colden Smith, Janett Parker and Trea Parker performed in the concert in Youngaleena. The concert was a joint venture between Gumala Aboriginal Corporation, the WA Education Department, BHP Billiton and Diabetes Australia and gave the children an opportunity to learn how to play instruments and learn about topics such as diabetes prevention and healthy eating through the songs. Desert Feet is an educational program which brings music concerts and workshops on healthy eating and diabetes into remote Indigenous communities.

HEALTHY EATING MESSAGES AND WORKSHOPS Alongside the healthy eating messages and workshops, a BBQ was put on for the communities with healthy food such as meat, vegetable skewers and fruit at the concert. Gumala Members, Shirley Tittums, Rex and Loraine Parker, Laurissa Bobby, Joshua Pat, Samal Bobby, Wesley Munda, Thelma Parker, Nuola Parker and Rachael Parker also attended the concert in Youngaleena.

Thank you to Cultural Awareness Trainers Gumala Aboriginal Corporation wishes to thank Gumala Members Stuart Ingie Snr, Darren Injie and Ronwyn James, who provided Cultural Awareness training sessions to Gumala staff during the year. These sessions represented highly valuable learning experiences for all Gumala staff.

Wishing you a joyous festive season! The Management and Staff of Gumala Aboriginal Coporation would like to wish all our Members and their families a happy and healthy and safe festive season. If you are travelling, please stay safe on the roads. Happy New Year and we will see you in 2013! 39

GUMALA NEWS

CHRISTMAS 2012 EDITION

The Green Machine pays Gumala Radio a visit Gumala Radio broadcaster John ‘Tadam’ Lockyer got the opportunity to interview world champion boxer Danny Green

GUMALA Aboriginal Corporation

while he was having breakfast at the Tom Price Bistro on Friday December 7, 2012. “The Green Machine” toured

several Pilbara towns in early December to do some fundraising for community groups in each town.

Tom Price (Head Office):

Perth (Administration Office):

1 Stadium Road

Level 1, 165 Adelaide Terrace

Tom Price, Western Australia

East Perth, Western Australia

Phone: 1800 486 252 (1800 GUMALA) Fax: (08) 9219 4555 Postal Address: PO Box 3167, East Perth WA 6892

ICN 2744

Email: gac@gumala.com.au Web: www.gumala.com.au