Aboriginal businesses and entrepreneurs celebrated at first Goldfields Aboriginal Business Chamber Awards

Aboriginal businesses and entrepreneurs have been celebrated at the first Goldfields Aboriginal Business Chamber Awards for breaking new ground, creating local employment and strengthening community through innovation, leadership and cultural pride. During Indigenous Business Month in October, the chamber held its inaugural awards ceremony, featuring seven categories. Taking the Aboriginal business excellence award was Esperance-based tour guiding business Dabungool Cultural Experiences for their outstanding excellence, growth and contribution as an Aboriginal-owned business employing up to four people. The family run business offers immersive cultural experiences through the eyes of Indigenous Australians through exploring flora and fauna in Wudjari country. Kambalda’s metal recycling and scrapping organisation PIT Bull Services won the Aboriginal business achievement award recognising the achievement, success and commitment to excellence as an Aboriginal-owned business employing five to 10 people. PIT Bull Services prides themselves on protecting the environment for generations to come, as they also provide environmental rehabilitation services and are a registered operator of Containers for Change. Kalgoorlie-Boulder-based business winners included A-Z Panel & Paint which won the Aboriginal business leadership award, and Jarahfire Drilling Exploration which took the title of Aboriginal business ally of the year. Individual winners were Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s Benjamin Stubbs, who won the young Aboriginal entrepreneur of the year award, Melissa Dimer of Melissa’s Indigenous Cleaning Services, and Raquel Todd of Blak Line Industries, who were awarded female Aboriginal business leader awards, and Rohan Dimer of Kalgoorlie’s Swish Auto Electrics who won the male Aboriginal business leader award. General manager Melissa Tombs said the inaugural event marked a significant step for the chamber as well as Aboriginal businesses and organisations within the region. “The evening was more than a celebration, it was a powerful reminder of the talent, resilience and innovation that Aboriginal businesses bring to the Goldfields,” she said. “These enterprises are not only creating local jobs and opportunities, but they are leading with cultural integrity and vision for the future. “Our region thrives when our businesses grow and by recognising their achievements, we are building a stronger, more connected Goldfields for generations to come.” The awards were supported by Mineral Resources, with manager communities and stakeholder engagement Daniel Barker saying: “GABC is widely recognised as a vital pillar in the Goldfields business ecosystem, championing a more inclusive and equitable marketplace and inspiring organisations like our own to think differently about our approach to Aboriginal procurement. “Congratulations to all the individuals and businesses represented at the event, your contributions enrich the region and set a benchmark for excellence.”