2012 ANNUAL REPORT - Gumala

Chief Executive Officer’s Report
Members’ Services (comprising
Community Development,
Business Development,
Education & Training and
Culture) and Support Services
(comprising Finance, Human
Resources, Facilities & IT and
Operations). Each area within a
division has a line manager and
synergies are being developed as
a result.
Gumala Investments
Pty Ltd (GIPL)
GAC owns a subsidiary
company (GIPL) that is
independent of GAC, fulfilling
the role of “Trustee” under the
charitable structure called the
General Gumala Foundation
(GGF). Within this particular
legal structure, GAC does
not receive the compensation
monies directly but rather
though the GGF, in which
it is designated the role of
“Manager”.
This necessarily requires GAC
to approach the independent
Trustee for funding in order
to distribute the funds to the
Traditional Owners. There has
been a long history of tension,
dispute and disagreement
between the Manager and
Trustee.
Attempts to “merge” failed
in 2011; however both GAC
and GIPL recognised the
importance of aligning together
to maximise the benefits to
the Traditional Owners. To
this end, mechanisms have
been introduced, including a
financial acquittals system and
open communications that are
proving effective.
I would like to recognise Ms.
Dianne Guise, Chairperson of
the Trustee, for the leadership
she has displayed in bringing us
together and ensuring GAC and
GIPL are on “the same page”.
Lessons Learnt
It continues to be an
exciting time to be a part
of an organisation racing to
satisfy the aspirations of the
membership. There have been
disappointments, setbacks
and delays while seeking to
improve the living standards and
quality of life of the Traditional
Owners.
GAC’s achievements far
outweigh its failures (as you will
realise throughout this annual
report).
I am reminded of the words
of a famous leader who was
vehemently against slavery
during an era when it was
popular. John Quincy Adams,
the sixth President of the United
States once said: “Patience and
perseverance have a magical effect
before which difficulties disappear
and obstacles vanish.”
Conclusion
Any achievements would not
have eventuated had it not been
for the trust and confidence of
the Board in Management.
I am particularly grateful to the
former Chairman Keith Hall
and the new Chairman Stephen
Peterson. Their stewardship
of GAC during a time of
continuing change has been truly
inspirational.
Comfort is also drawn from
the Elders who remind us
everyday that life at GAC is
about protecting, advancing
and celebrating the Traditional
Owners’ way of life while
providing economic and social
opportunities to alleviate
poverty and to achieve selfdetermination.
Warmly,
GAC’s Chairman Stephen Peterson
pictured with CEO Steve Mav
Steve Mav
Chief Executive Officer
18 GUMALA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION ANNUAL REPORT 2012