Five Indigenous businesses and organisations have been recognised at the annual Rockhampton Indigenous Business Month Celebration on Dharumbal Country, with awards highlighting their contributions to community, culture and economic opportunity.
Supported by Rockhampton Regional Council's economic development agency, Advance Rockhampton, the event explored how Indigenous businesses contribute to the region through community ties, partnerships and connections with the broader business community.
This year's theme, Local and Connected, also informed two new categories in the Business Recognition Awards, now in their third year.
Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (DPAC) chairperson Gloria Malone highlighted the role Indigenous businesses play in creating opportunities for future generations while maintaining connections to community and Country.
"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," Ms Malone said.
"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."
Gumbi-Gumbi Residential Withdrawal and Rehabilitation Service received the new Empowering Communities Award.
The category recognises an Indigenous owned, governed or community led organisation, group or initiative strengthening social, cultural and economic wellbeing through Indigenous self-determination.
It celebrates culturally grounded leadership and partnerships that support communities to determine their futures, create sustainable economic opportunities and build resilience.
Tunuba Pty Ltd received the new Shared Prosperity Award for a sustained commitment to advancing Indigenous self-determination and economic prosperity by supporting Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurship.
The category recognises the role of respectful partnerships, ethical practices and Indigenous led decision making in achieving long-term economic outcomes.
Warama Culture received the Cultural Community Impact Award, recognising an Indigenous business contributing to its community through cultural leadership, social initiatives or community empowerment.
Ochre Social Performance received the Integration Collaboration Award, which celebrates partnerships between Indigenous businesses and other sectors, organisations or communities.
Trusted Cuts received the Rising Star Award, recognising an emerging Indigenous entrepreneur or business demonstrating promise, innovation and leadership.
The celebration brought together organisations working to support Indigenous businesses and develop partnerships with lasting community benefits.
"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," Ms Malone said.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams highlighted the contribution of Indigenous businesses to the regional economy and the opportunities created through stronger relationships.
"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," Mr Williams said.
"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."
The celebration is delivered by a working group comprising representatives of Native Title Holders, state and federal government agencies, non-government agencies and local Indigenous led businesses.
Advance Rockhampton acknowledged the Queensland Indigenous Business Network's ongoing partnership in the event.
Sponsors included DPAC, Central Queensland Indigenous Development, the First Nations Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Stanwell Power Station, with support from Local Jobs Fitzroy.
