2012 ANNUAL REPORT - Gumala

Chairman’s Report
Thunurrdu! (welcome!)
It is a humbling experience to
lead a reputable organisation
that represents the Banyjima,
Innawonga and Nyiyaparli
people of the Pilbara, whose
ancestral lands span thousands
of years.
The role of Chairman at Gumala
Aboriginal Corporation (GAC)
is a demanding one. I say
this not for myself as a new
Chairman, but by observing
the hard work of those that
have come before me and the
difficulties they had faced in
keeping the membership abreast
of the rapid changes taking place
in their organisation.
I have seen my predecessors
work tirelessly to lead GAC
into reaching its full potential
of becoming a world class,
best practice, member-driven
organisation only to face even
higher levels of expectations
from the membership.
Fortunately, the changes
instigated since Steve Mav
arrived five years ago as our
Chief Executive Officer have
been significant and visionary.
Today, GAC has become
one of Australia’s largest and
most innovative Aboriginal
corporations.
It provides a variety of services
to three language groups and
aims to become a model for
similar organisations. Although
it hasn’t been easy – far from it.
No organisation seeking
transformational change can
grow without making missteps or
challenging established norms.
A particular type of leadership
is required; one based on being
determined and aspirational.
These qualities can be found in
GAC and a culture of “serving”
has been a hallmark of the
Board and Management.
As you read through the 2012
Annual Report, I hope you gain
a better appreciation of the wide
range of work being undertaken
by a professional staff overseen
by a responsible Board.
GAC has much to be proud
of and together, in partnership
with our key stakeholders, the
achievements to date are only
the beginning!
Our people will always be
indebted to the Elders –
especially those who have
passed away – for establishing
GAC and providing present and
future generations with many
opportunities denied to our
ancestors.
While we celebrate selfdetermination
and indigenous
empowerment, let us never
forget the struggles we’ve faced
to get to where we are.
On a final note, I would like
to recognise the work of my
immediate predecessor, Director
Keith Hall for his important
contribution to GAC’s growth.
I also appreciate the support
of all the directors on the
Board, especially the Deputy
Chairman, Director Stuart Ingie
and Secretary, Director David
MacLean.
Together, we continue to push
ahead and turn GAC into a
bigger and better organisation
serving our people.
Kind regards,
Stephen Peterson
Chairman
12 GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ANNUAL REPORT 2012