New Nyamba Buru Yawuru board after community “expressed concern”

A prominent Kimberley Aboriginal corporation has formed a new board after community members “expressed concern”. In a statement released late Friday night, Nyamba Buru Yawuru said community members had “expressed concern” the board was not aligned or effectively communicating with the Yawuru Prescribed Body Corporate. “Following a period of discussion and attempts to find a resolution it was determined that a new board at NBY was the best path forward,” the statement said. The new board will be co-chaired by Debra Pigram and Johani Mamid who serve on the Yawuru PBC board. The move will also see holding company Murra Mala Yawuru outgoing chair Maxine Charlie take the NBY deputy chair. Yawuru PBC chair Benjamin Dolby said the board was selected through a consultative approach between the PBC and MMY boards including cultural leaders. “We are extremely grateful to the diverse and experienced directors who have stood up to take on this new responsibility and look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the NBY board for the benefit of all Yawuru people,” he said. On June 4 the corporation saw their chief executive Susan Bergersen resign after just one year in the job. Ms Bergersen had spent five years in various positions in the executive team. “The board will progress the recruitment and appointment of a new chief executive for NBY,” the statement released Friday said. “In the meantime, current deputy chief executive Cara Peek will serve as interim chief executive.” The group has substantial business, social and investment interests in Broome and surrounds, including a cafe, housing and a pastoral station. Debra Pigram, Johani Mamid and Maxine Charlie will be joined by Jasmyn Cook, Brendan Renkin and Lincoln North on the new board.