Kimberley designers Bianca Long and Cissy Gore-Birch chosen for Indigenous Fashion Projects Pathways program

Two Kimberley fashion designers, Bianca Long and Cissy Gore-Birch, have been selected for the prestigious Indigenous Fashion Projects Pathways Program. The national professional development program run by the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation’s Indigenous Fashion Projects runs from 2025-2027 and supports First Nations fashion designers to build sustainable, culturally grounded careers. Long said she was excited to see what the opportunity had to offer. “What I’m most excited to explore through the program is developing my brands, Jaru Girl and Milky Water (Western), into a financially stable fashion business,” she said. “I’m eager to learn about new textile techniques and gain insight into how the fashion industry operates, and how the fashion industry can meet the needs of the First Nation designers.” Her Jaru Girl designs focus on celebrating identity and bring traditional elements into contemporary designs, while Milky Water Western is inspired by Long’s family’s connection to rodeo culture. “Through my designs, I want to show that our fashion is more than just clothing, it’s wearable art that carries deep meaning, connection to country and cultural storytelling,” she said. One day Long hopes to showcase her work, which was featured at the 10th anniversary of the Country to Couture fashion show earlier this year, on the international stage. “What next for me beyond this program is to keep working on both brands as in financially visible fashion business and to keep being true to myself and my culture and keep sharing our designs, our stories and educating people about the richness and diversity of First Nations culture,” she said. “The impact I hope for is a stronger understanding that Indigenous fashion is not a trend, but an important part of Australia’s identity — a space for truth-telling, creativity, and cultural exchange that inspires future generations and one day see the Jaru Girl and Milky Water Western brand showcased internationally. “I hope my work, and Indigenous fashion more broadly, continues to transform the Australian fashion landscape by bringing greater visibility, respect, and appreciation for our culture and stories.” IFP manager Michelle Maynard said she was excited to announce the cohort of designers accepted into the program. “It’s a powerhouse of talent, strength and cultural grounding, continuing our efforts toward building sustainable, self-determined futures,” she said.