Walter Steam started his career operating a single grader, supporting businesses including Fortescue. It was the beginning of a longstanding partnership that continues today.

Since then, Mr Steam, a respected Palyku Traditional Custodian, has grown his business into Munganya, a 50/50 joint venture with Sharon Kais and Jordan Kais that works with mining businesses across Western Australia.

Munganya, meaning echidna in the Palyku language, is a symbol of strength and determination. The business creates training and employment opportunities for Aboriginal people, with Walter and the team also investing a portion of proceeds back into community development initiatives.

That growth has now brought Munganya to work alongside Fortescue at the Nullagine Wind Project, where the business will maintain roads supporting the project within the Nullagine area.

"I'm proud of what we have built at Munganya so far and we're looking forward to supporting Fortescue's wind farm project at Nullagine," Mr Steam said.

"This will be the first wind farm project we have worked on, but we are well equipped to deliver the work. It's a great opportunity for our business and we see value in projects that can reduce emissions and have a better outcome for the environment and our Country."

The relationship extends beyond the work itself. Last month, Fortescue team members joined Walter, the Munganya team and local residents for a community barbecue in Nullagine, providing an opportunity to connect on Country.

"We have worked with Walter for many years, and it's been great to see him grow Munganya into the business it is today," said Rosli Wheelock, Fortescue's Director of Approvals, Communities and Services.

"Having Munganya working with us on the Nullagine Wind Project means we're drawing on their local knowledge and experience, while supporting an Aboriginal business with strong connections to the community."

This report was produced with the support of Fortescue.