New Era for Dambimangari
Posted on 08 Feb 2016
Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation is embarking on an ambitious and diverse program of cultural initiatives and economic development in 2016. Operating from a modern purpose-built office in Derby, the corporation is building on the principles of sound economic development, strong community support and revitalisation of the Dambimangari culture.
Francis Woolagoodja was elected Chairperson at first Directors meeting in December. Former chairman, Warren Barunga, was elected deputy. Other directors elected at the December AGM are Rowena Mouda, Edna Mungulu, Peter Pedersen, Sandra Mungulu, Richard Roe, Bronwyn Liddell, Leah Umbagai and Kenneth Gibson.
Key projects taking priority in the next year include:
- Negotiations with Government over the over the management of National Parks in Dambimangari country
- Discussions with potential joint venture partners in aquaculture and logistics
- Finalisation of The Dambimangari Future Generations project – working with old people and researchers to prepare language materials, cultural heritage maps, data bases, family trees and the production of a book about Dambimangari history, country and culture.
- Continued implementation of the Healthy Country Plan
- Significant expansion of the work of Dambimangari Rangers
- Support for cultural and tourism ventures.
- Ongoing work with the wider commercial and recreation boating community to develop the Dambimangari Visitor Management Plan to manage, protect and sustain the traditional, natural and highly desirable places in Dambimangari land and sea country.
The new office was opened in December by Kimberley MLA Josie Farrer.
The modern $2 million office complex in Guildford Street, Derby, will provide up-to-date administration facilities, including a workshop, boat, vehicle and other storage capacity for the corporation’s assets. It will also provide the Dambimangari community with information, meeting resources and social support services.
Picture Caption:
Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Officer Peter McCumstie with Kimberley MLA Josie Farrer at the opening of the Corporation’s new office in Derby