Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur, Leanne Kemp, met today with Indigenous tourism operators to discuss the #Hope Project and the development of a cultural landmark.
Ms Kemp is a prominent figure in the technology sector and recognised internationally as an innovator and leader.
She is a member of the World Economic Forum on Circular Economy and Global Battery Alliance as well as an Adjunct Professor at the Institute for Future Environment [Queensland University of Technology].
The role of the Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur is to champion Queensland’s innovation economy.
The Office of the Queensland Entrepreneur supports regional and remote Queenslanders to produce statewide opportunities.
During her “grassroots tour” to Bundaberg Leanne and the Queensland Chief Entrepreneurs Office met with Bundaberg Indigenous tourism operator, Taribelang Cultural Aboriginal Corporation (TCAC).
Nikki Tiger and Byron Broome run cultural tours in Bundaberg with their business, Taribelang Cultural Aboriginal Corporation (TCAC) in collaboration with local elders.
The core premise behind the tours is to bring cultural awareness to the region and enhance the presence of Indigenous tourism.
Nikki and Byron believe that with the increased demand for domestic tourism it gives their business the opportunity to establish Bundaberg as a cultural tourism hot spot.
“Our culture tours are a way for us to showcase our heritage and break barriers – we all as one,” Nikki said.
“The support from the community group has empowered us to move forward on desired cultural projects, such a community yarning circle.
Yarning Circles are Aboriginal cultural spaces that have been used for thousands of years.
A place to learn, build respectful relationships and to preserve and pass on cultural knowledge.
They are also meeting places for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities to come together and have a good yarn.
Over 80 people in Bundaberg have come together and created a community group – #Hope Project : Reconciliation Bundy.
Within the group, one of the goals is to uplift and support indigenous culture and business.
Jenae Jenkins established the Facebook group that is now home to community members, organisations and developers who support local reconciliation projects.
“In Australia it is important we support, uplift and walk alongside our First Nations people and that can only be done by listening and gaining understanding,” Jenae said.
“The Facebook page is a space where people of all backgrounds and skill sets can come together and share their passion for our community. It’s a safe place for cultural projects to flourish.
“Embracing Indigenous culture is something to be proud of and will continue to strengthen our community.”
Morgahna Godwin is a local Bundaberg Entrepreneur and feels Indigenous tourism needs to be highlighted.
“This year has been declared the year of indigenous tourism by the Queensland state government,” Morgahna said.
“Now more than ever, it’s time for us all to rediscover, confront and celebrate the rich history of this land.”
Dean Hyland is the Centre Manager at Headspace Bundaberg and believes that collaborating with Indigenous business and tourism is one way to build community identity within the region.
“Indigenous culture is important to be showcased and highlighted. I haven’t been living in Bundaberg for long, but I have noticed that the culture here is missing,” he said.
“To support Taribelang Cultural Aboriginal Corporation will be one way we can start to cement Indigenous culture into our community. This is a fantastic opportunity to identify, respect and celebrate Indigenous culture.”
Marcus McCormick is the Regional Business HQ Manager in Bundaberg and is excited to partner with Indigenous businesses on the #Hope Project.
“We really support the idea of establishing Indigenous business opportunities,” he said.
“Everything we do is to support innovation and drive new ideas, so this is a great opportunity to do that with our local indigenous community.”
