Gumala News

GUMALA NEWS
GUMALA
Aboriginal
Corporation
ICN 2744
EASTER 2013
When reading this publication and sharing it with family
and friends, please be mindful that it may contain images
and/or names of people who have since passed away
When reading this publication and sharing it with family and friends, please be mindful
that it may contain images and/or names of people who have since passed away

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
CHAIRMAN’S COMMENT
2
Focus on health; importance of Elders
Thunurrdu!
Health continues to be a key
issue that Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation is working on. In
mid-March I met with the WA
Country Health Service (WACHS)
in Perth to discuss the lack of
renal dialysis services available to
Gumala Members in ‘our country’
in the Pilbara.
What I learnt from this meeting
was not only the need to provide
a community supported renal
dialysis facility in Tom Price,
but to also get information out
to Members on chronic kidney
disease. Our kidneys can be
getting weak without us even
knowing, so it is really important
for all Members (young and old)
to have regular health checks.
Also in March, I had a meeting
with the Aboriginal Health Council
of WA (AHCWA) to discuss
Gumala’s initiative to open up an
Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS)
in Tom Price. Dr. Dan McAullay
and Jenny Sala were more than
helpful with advice and indicated
strong support for establishing
a culturally appropriate health
service in the Tom Price region.
The soon to be appointed Gumala
Health Committee (see page 24)
will have a big role to play in
getting this off the ground.
On another important note, I
had a teleconference in March
with a youth suicide prevention
organisation to learn about a
program they run, called ‘One
Life’, based around mental health
and well-being. We are hoping to
develop a partnership with them
in the near future.
Our Elders
One of the key focus areas for
Gumala News in each edition
from now on is to give our Elders
a stronger voice. So we will
be capturing and telling their
stories through Gumala News. So
I encourage our Elders who wish
to tell Gumala News their story to
contact Gumala and to share their
yarns.
GAC Chairman Stephen Peterson
I am often asked by non-
Indigenous people ‘how does one
become an Elder?’ Becoming an
Elder is not a matter of age or
holding the most knowledge. It is
a way of being that is recognised
solely by people in and around
the community.
The respect of being an Elder is
earned through active service to
the community and their people.
The culture, lore, knowledge and
language that is passed on to an
Aboriginal person from a young
age means that it becomes part of
him or her.
They in turn pass on their culture,
lore, knowledge and language
to the younger generation. And
this continues generation after
generation. I want to thank all
Gumala Elders for the knowledge
that they share with the whole
Gumala family.
These teachings are essential for
our culture and identity. We are
fortunate to have many respected
Elders amongst our Membership.
But our Elders are not getting
any younger. It has been a difficult
summer for a few Gumala families
who have lost loved ones. My thoughts
and prayers are with those families
during this difficult time. Finally, I
would like to wish all of my fellow
Traditional Owners a happy and safe
Easter.
Stephen Peterson
Chairman
GUMALA NEWS
is a Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation (ICN 2744)
publication.
Front cover photo: Gumala
Elder and GEPL Director
Dawn Hicks. See Elders
feature stories from page
12. Elders photos by Elly
Lukale, GAC.
Gumala calls on political
bipartisanship to enact changes
to Federal legislation
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
(GAC) has recently written to
Prime Minister Julia Gillard and
the Opposition Leader Tony
Abbott to express our concerns
regarding current Federal
taxation legislation pertaining to
Aboriginal Corporations under
Native Title.
This letter, signed by myself and
GAC Chairman Stephen Peterson,
followed a speech I delivered at
the Native Title, Land Access and
Cultural Heritage conference held
recently in Perth.
The key message contained in
both the letter and the speech
was that although GAC currently
delivers millions of dollars of
programs (non-cash benefits) to
support our Traditional Owners
(three of the greatest ancient
Aboriginal tribes in WA’s iron
ore rich Pilbara region), the
effectiveness of these programs
is limited by the Federal
Government’s tax legislation.
Our tax-exempt PBI (Public
Benevolent Institution) status
warrants that we operate within
strident tax jurisdictions which
prohibit us in providing regular
cash benefits to our Traditional
Owners.
We believe this to be unfair and
discriminatory. We are unable
to assist our Members in having
more options such as regular cash
payments without jeopardising
our PBI status.
With the increase of Aboriginal
Corporations established under
land use agreements (most
under the umbrella of a PBI),
each Corporation is generally
restricted in assisting its
Traditional Owners financially.
The issues that confront our
Traditional Owners are very real
and regular relief payments made
to them by Gumala and other
Aboriginal Corporations would
enhance and lift their standard of
living.
Moreover, if the intention is to
“compensate” for Traditional
Lands being disrupted, arguably,
any compensation monies
whether provided through a PBI or
otherwise should be exempt from
being taxed.
Gumala is calling on the
Federal Government and
Federal Opposition, in a spirit
of bipartisanship, to re-examine
tax legislation and to enact
changes in the Parliament in
GAC Chief Executive Officer Steve Mav
order to transform this restrictive
and paternalistic approach to
compensation monies.
In our letter addressed to the
Prime Minister and Leader of the
Opposition, the Chairman and
I (on behalf of our Corporation,
Elders and Board of Directors)
requested a meeting with them
both to discuss current challenges
facing our Traditional Owners, as
well as highlighting the important
work we are doing at Gumala.
We look forward to those
meetings taking place in the
future.
Steve Mav
Chief Executive Officer
CEO’S COMMENT
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GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
KEY APPOINTMENTS
4
Gumala’s business arm appoints
new Managing Director
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
(GAC) Chief Executive Officer
Steve Mav has been appointed
Managing Director of Gumala
Enterprises Pty Ltd (GEPL).
Following his appointment, Steve
said that in his dual roles as CEO
of GAC and Managing Director
of GEPL he would strive to
achieve a strategic alignment and
greater synergies between the
parent company and its business
subsidiary.
“I will have overall responsibility
for the management of both GAC
and GEPL,” he said.
“The intention is to achieve
strategic alignment between GAC
and GEPL and to maximise the
benefits to the Traditional Owners.
“The result will be better
synergies and greater operational
effectiveness across both GAC
and GEPL.
Exciting Phase
Gumala’s longest serving
employee appointed to
management role
The longest serving staff member of Gumala
Aboriginal Corporation, Traditional Owner
Ronwyn James, has been promoted to a Trainee
Management position at Gumala.
Ronwyn joined the organisation in 2000 as a
Receptionist and has since received several
promotions, including the most recent roles of
Member Solutions Specialist and Health and
Culture Specialist.
As Trainee Manager, Ronwyn’s goal is to
provide superior service to Gumala Members.
Ronwyn is a Traditional Owner from the
Innawonga language group.
Gumala’s Trainee
Manager, Gumala
Member Ronwyn
James has been a loyal
employee at Gumala for
approximately 13 years
“This is an exciting phase in the
growth of Gumala as we undertake
transformational change
consistent with self-determination
for the Traditional Owners.”
Gumala appoints
Banyjima Elder as
Indigenous Mentor &
Cultural Advisor
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation welcomes the
appointment of highly respected Gumala Elder
Archie Tucker as the organisation’s Indigenous
Mentor & Cultural Advisor.
Archie is a Banyjima Traditional Owner who
formerly served on various Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation Boards, including serving as Chairman
of the Board.
He was born at Giralia Station and grew up in
Wittenoom with his brother and two sisters.
He is a hands-on man in his community and
modestly refers to himself as a handyman.
He travels regularly to various Pilbara homeland
communities and regional centres and works
tirelessly in the communities.
Banyjima Traditional
Owner promoted to
management position
Gumala Member and staff
member Ronnelle Hicks has been
promoted to Trainee Manager.
Ronnelle joined the Tom Price
office in 2012 as Indigenous
Co-ordinator/Mentor, bringing
with her a solid background in
Aboriginal Education, mentoring
and a passion for Aboriginal
languages.
Originally from the Pilbara,
Ronnelle is a traditional Banyjima
woman.
Prior to working for Gumala
Ronnelle was employed as a
Manager for Aboriginal Education
for the Pilbara District (3 years)
and the Education Department (10
years).
Her employment background also
includes the Aboriginal Advisory
Council.
Gumala’s Trainee Manager
Ronnelle Hicks
Gumala’s Indigenous Mentor and Cultural Advisor
Archie Tucker
New addition to
Support Services
Gumala Member Cecilia (Winkle)
Parker has joined Gumala’s
Support Services division in
Gumala’s Tom Price office.
Cecilia was recruited to the
position of Receptionist following
a similar role she performed
for Gumala’s business division,
Gumala Enterprises Pty Ltd.
Cecilia is a Traditional Banyjima
woman who has been raised in
Tom Price.
Gumala’s Tom Price Receptionist
Cecilia Parker
KEY APPOINTMENTS
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GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
OUR YOUTH
6
WAFL football & education opportunity
lures young Banyjima man to the city
Swan Districts have lured 17 year
old Gumala Traditional Owner
(Banyjima) Trevor Dhu Jnr to
move from “up north” to “the big
smoke” in order to pursue his
love of footy and receive a quality
education.
Former West Coast Eagles stars
Chris Lewis and Troy Ugle “talentspotted”
Trevor playing footy in
South Hedland last year. They then
got the CEO of the Swan Districts
Colts to come and watch him play.
Trevor then received an invitation
in December to fly to Perth for
pre-season training with Swans.
They were so impressed that they
signed him up.
Trevor’s parents, Gumala Member
Trevor Dhu Snr and Corrine Dhu,
are particularly pleased because
under the two-year “V Swans
Program”, Trevor Jnr intends to
fulfil two goals – to get the best
out of himself on the footy field,
and to successfully complete his
high school studies. As part of the
V Swans Program, Trevor Jnr has
commenced Year 11 studies at
La Salle College in Middle Swan,
Perth.
Under the program, Trevor
shares accommodation with three
other Swans players, who are
supported by “house parents” or
“mentors”. The teenagers are also
getting good life lessons in being
independent, having to cook and
clean for themselves.
Trevor Jnr told Gumala News that
while it is a big change coming
to Perth from a small town he is
settling in really well.
“I’m coping with being away
from home. I have a good support
system from my parents who keep
in contact a lot. My football friends
have also been good support.
The La Salle College have also
been really good with time
management. They’re really
flexible and are working my study
times around my football.”
Trevor Dhu Jnr (far right) training
with his Swan Districts teammates
While Trevor has the support
network of his family, two leading
males in his life are his biggest
inspiration.
Major Inspirations
“I have two major inspirations in
my life my grandfather and my
father. My grandfather, Edward
Dhu Snr is an inspiration because
he is a leader and a hard worker
in South Hedland and I aspire to
be like him.
“My father, Trevor Dhu Snr is an
inspiration to me because he was
an up and coming footballer in
Alice Springs. I would like to carry
on with football and be able to
carry on the dream for my father,”
he said.
So what makes a good footballer?
Trevor Jnr said he believes it takes
skill and character.
“I believe to be a good footballer
you have to be good at football
and have a good character.
And to have a good character you
have to show leadership in your
community, work with younger
people and be a role model.”
Trevor Jnr’s mother Corrine
said that while the family have
always kept him grounded and
are pushing him to focus on his
education, they also encourage
him to pursue his football
ambitions.
“Trevor is settling in well and his
footy training is progressing well.
He is focussed and determined to
stay on track,” she said.
“A lot of these opportunities
wouldn’t be possible without
Gumala’s help.”
The quality parenting received
from his parents has been a
positive influence on his life and
it is from their wisdom that he
wishes to pass on his advice to
fellow Members.
“The advice I would give to other
Members is to set goals that are
reachable. So for example, if you
want to be better at football then
you have to train hard.”
This is the latest of Trevor’s
achievements in his young life so
far.
Corrine said that last year he
went on a three month overseas
exchange trip to Scotland through
his previous school.
He has also been on leadership
summits and worked hard in
various areas of school life.
Trevor Jnr is one of many Gumala
Traditional Owners that Gumala
supports under our Education
Programs and Scholarships.
Sam Walsh appointment as
Rio Tinto Chief Executive
is well deserved
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
wishes to congratulate former Rio
Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive
Sam Walsh on his recent
appointment as Rio Tinto Chief
Executive.
Without a doubt, Mr Walsh’s strong
record of performance within the
company has been recognised by
the Rio Tinto Board. In addition,
Gumala always had Mr Walsh’s
strong support during his time as
Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive.
The compensation monies Gumala
receives from the Yandicoogina
Gumala’s key stakeholder Rio
Tinto has appointed Andrew
Harding as Iron Ore Chief
Executive, replacing Sam Walsh
who became Rio Tinto Chief
Executive in January 2013.
Sam Walsh said the appointment
of Andrew Harding strengthens
Rio Tinto’s senior management
team and is in line with the
company’s strategy of developing
the next generation of talented Rio
Tinto leaders.
“Andrew’s experience across a
range of Rio Tinto businesses and
countries and his three years on
the Executive Committee mean
he is ideally placed to run the
highest-earning business in the
Group. He began his Rio Tinto
career in the company’s Iron Ore
business in the Pilbara when it was
a smaller operation and now he is
ready to take it to the next stage
by expanding capacity by more
than half in just over two years.”
Andrew Harding was appointed
Chief Executive of Rio Tinto
mine and Gumala’s ability to
translate these benefits into
tangible, economic and social
development programs may not
have fully materialised without Mr
Walsh’s support.
Today, Gumala has over 30
Member Services programs, an
operational budget of over $20
million, expanding Community
Development initiatives and a
professional workforce in excess
of 150 employees (including
our business subsidiary Gumala
Enterprises Pty Ltd).
Rio Tinto appoints new Iron Ore
Chief Executive
Copper in November 2009. He
joined Rio Tinto in 1992 and
spent seven years in the Iron Ore
business, including the position of
Manager, Mine Operations.
Andrew went on to roles in
Coal, Energy, Aluminium and
Technology & Innovation. Prior
to his appointment to Chief
Executive Copper, Andrew was
president and Chief Executive
Officer, Kennecott Utah Copper.
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s
Chief Executive Officer Steve Mav
said:
“On behalf of Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation, we wish to extend
our whole-hearted congratulations
to Andrew on his new and exciting
leadership role as Chief Executive
of Rio Tinto Iron Ore (RTIO).
“ RTIO and Gumala share a
strong, positive and transparent
stakeholder relationship, which
dates back to the signing of the
Yandi Land Use Agreement in
1997.
KEY STAKEHOLDER
Rio Tinto Chief Executive Sam
Walsh. Image courtesy of Rio Tinto.
“Thanks to this key stakeholder
relationship, Gumala is able to
provide our Traditional Owners
with a wide range of funding
opportunities that are enriching
and transforming their lives. ”
Rio Tinto’s recently appointed Iron
Ore Chief Executive Andrew Harding.
Image courtesy of Rio Tinto.
7

KEY STAKEHOLDER
GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
Q & A with Rio Tinto’s General Manager,
Yandicoogina – Alex Bates
Gumala News recently caught up with Rio Tinto’s General Manager of the Yandicoogina mine, Alex Bates. Alex
provided valuable insight into the mutual importance of the Yandi Land Use Agreement, which represents the
genesis of our critical stakeholder relationship.
What is your professional
and personal background?
Professionally: I began my career
as a Civil Engineer, working in
South Africa and London before
joining Rio Tinto in 1997.
I was interviewed by Rio Tinto in
the UK before being transferred
to Rio Tinto’s copper operations in
Africa.
My management roles for Rio
Tinto progressed from Africa to
Australia (Northern Territory and
Queensland).
I accepted the role of General
Manager for Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s
Yandicoogina operations in WA at
taking on the role of
General Manager of the
Yandicoogina mine?
Working with such a great team
of people who are all part of
our successful operations at
Yandicoogina is a privilege. It’s a
great operation involving great
people.
The Yandicoogina mine produced
54.7 million tonnes last year,
the highest output in the mine’s
history. Yandicoogina is without
doubt the Australian mining
industry’s “quiet achiever”.
Another significant achievement at
Yandicoogina’s Junction South East
pit is the recent implementation
recognised. We are very proud
because this recognition reaffirms
that our core value is about
embedding a zero harm safety
culture, where we truly believe
that we can all go home safely at
the end of every shift.
In your view, what is
the significance of the
Yandicoogina mine in
relation to Rio Tinto’s
overall Iron Ore division?
The Yandicoogina mine produces
more than one quarter of Rio
Tinto’s share of iron ore production
in Australia. When you consider
that Rio Tinto Iron Ore is currently
8
“The Yandicoogina Land Use Agreement ensures that Rio Tinto is paying
Gumala’s Traditional Owners for the iron ore resources we extract from their
traditional land. Those compensation payments are well-managed, which
means that long after the mine closes, future generations of Traditional
Owners will be provided for.” – Alex Bates
the beginning of 2011.
Personally: I am originally Welsh
and spent most of my high school
education years in the southern
African country of Namibia. I
moved to Australia in 2004 and
am now a proud Australian citizen
together with my wife and four
children.
What do you consider to
be your most rewarding
achievements since
of the first fully autonomous
open pit in the world, thanks to
the autonomous trucks that now
operate at Yandicoogina (using
Autonomous Haulage System
technology).
Yandicoogina was also recently
presented the Rio Tinto Chief
Executive Safety Award.
We were up against a lot of
competition - every other Rio Tinto
mine, refinery and smelter right
around the world – and we were
responsible for over 80 per cent
of Rio Tinto’s total earnings, this
underlines the importance of the
Yandicoogina mine.
The Yandicoogina mine is a low
cost, large output operation with
an award-winning safety record.
However we need to all
remind ourselves that without
the Yandicoogina Land Use
Agreement there would be no
Yandicoogina mine at all.
Alex Bates pictured beside Gumala Elder and original signatory to the Yandi Land Use Agreement, Gordon Yuline.
Image taken at the official opening of Gumala’s Adelaide Terrace office in the Perth CBD late last year.
What is the nature of the
relationship between
Rio Tinto Iron Ore and
Gumala, and have there
been any growing pains?
The Yandicoogina Land Use
Agreement ensures that Rio Tinto
is paying Gumala’s Traditional
Owners for the iron ore resources
we extract from their traditional
land.
Those compensation payments
are well-managed, which means
that long after the mine closes,
future generations of Traditional
Owners will be provided for.
We are committed to continue
engaging with Gumala and
working together. We have a
strong collaborative relationship.
We have some differences, but
these are healthy differences that
lead to debate and eventually
better outcomes for both parties.
Rio Tinto wants to ensure we
continue a mutually rewarding
win-win partnership with Gumala.
It really is a genuine partnership.
What are Rio Tinto’s future
plans for the Yandicoogina
mine?
Last year the Rio Tinto Board
approved a $1.8 billion budget to
expand the Yandicoogina mining
operations.
This includes an expansion in the
construction camp, permanent
village and associated works
and services; the opening of the
Junction South West (JSW) pit
(“first iron ore” is expected at
JSW during the first quarter of this
year); a new dry processing plant
at JSW; a new wet processing plant
at the Junction South East pit and a
new stacker in our stockyard.
Our key focus for Yandicoogina
in 2013 is to safely maintain our
>
9

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
Alex Bates addressing an audience of over
100 special guests at the official opening
ceremony of Gumala’s Perth CBD office
>
position as one of Rio Tinto’s
lowest cost iron ore mines.
What was the key outcome
of the most recent
Yandicoogina Monitoring
and Liaison Meeting
between Rio Tinto and
Gumala?
A key outcome of the last
Yandicoogina monitoring and
liaison meeting related to a new
closure plan. The old Yandicoogina
mine closure plan, containing
the plan of how we will leave the
“THE ESTIMATED TIMELINE FOR
THE LIFE OF THE YANDICOOGINA
MINE IS AT LEAST ANOTHER 25
YEARS. WHEN WE FINALLY CLOSE
THE MINE, WE WANT TO LEAVE A
POSITIVE LASTING LEGACY FOR
THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS.”
site when the mine eventually
closes, was unworkable and was
unsatisfactory for both Rio Tinto
and Gumala.
The newly improved closure
plan is expected to be finalised
in consultation (including
consultation workshops) with
the Traditional Owners later this
year. It will then be submitted for
Government approval.
What is the estimated
“mine life” of
Yandicoogina?
– ALEX BATES
The estimated timeline for the
life of the Yandicoogina mine is at
least another 25 years.
When we finally close the mine,
we want to leave a positive lasting
legacy for the Traditional Owners.
I don’t think that the legacy is fully
apparent yet, but I believe it will
be completely apparent in the
fullness of time.
The importance of the
Yandicoogina Land Use
Agreement and its legacy cannot
be overstated.
Rio Tinto’s revamped Work Start Program
at Yandicoogina aims to provide career
pathways for Gumala Members
Rio Tinto’s recently appointed
Supervisor of Aboriginal
Programs, Jeromy Harvey, is
encouraging Gumala Members
to take part in this year’s
Yandicoogina’s Aboriginal Work
Start Program.
Jeromy is a Kija man from
Kununurra.
The program provides paid onsite
training that gives trainees
with little or no previous work
experience in the mining industry
a potential pathway into full time
employment with Rio Tinto.
The program is an 8-12 month
paid traineeship program that
has been designed to teach
the specifics required for each
participant’s area of interest.
Operator positions in fixed
plant or mobile plant and site
administration roles have been the
traditional pathways, although the
team at Yandicoogina are scoping
new trade-based opportunities for
2013/14.
The program allows trainees to be
fast-tracked or spend a little more
time in a certain phase depending
on the individual’s need and
developmental progress.
Beginning with a one week
on, one week off roster, onsite
corporate inductions and
additional workshops to assist with
teamwork and communication
skills, the program aims to
develop the skills required while
allowing the trainees to slowly
ease into the rigours of full time
Fly-In Fly-Out (FIFO) employment.
The Work Start Program assists
and supports trainees with the
FIFO lifestyle and the impacts this
may have at work, home or in the
community.
The lack of exposure and training
on-site in a FIFO environment was
identified as a major contributor
towards the limited success of the
original Work Ready Program at
Yandicoogina.
Rio Tinto Iron Ore – Yandicoogina
General Manager Alex Bates
added that the fact that there is no
established town at Yandicoogina
creates additional work
challenges for Traditional Owners.
“It’s a challenge because no town
TRAINEESHIP OPPORTUNITIES
means no support networks,” he
said.
“Mining towns like Tom Price have
these support networks.
At Yandicoogina all employees
are intrastate and interstate FIFOs.
Traditional Owners have very
close family networks, making the
FIFO work environment difficult
for them to manage.
“Hopefully the one week on,
one week off roster (rather than
two weeks on, one week off) we
have just implemented with the
Work Start Program will make a
difference and help Traditional
Owners successfully complete the
program.”
Gumala Members who are
interested in Yandicoogina’s
Aboriginal Work Start Program
should contact Jeromy Harvey.
Jeromy Harvey
Aboriginal Programs Supervisor
Yandicoogina – Human Resources
Rio Tinto Iron Ore
Ph (08) 9179 7107 Mobile: 0408
215 680
What happens to
Yandicoogina iron ore?
Iron ore from the Yandicoogina mine travels along about 450 km
of railway line to Cape Lambert (95 per cent of shipments) and
Dampier (5 per cent of shipments), where it is then shipped to
overseas customers (the majority of which are Japanese, South
Korean and Taiwanese companies).
Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s Pilbara operations utilise about 1500 km of
railway line, which is the largest non-Government heavy haulage
railway line in the world.
Important tip for Gumala
Members applying for jobs at
Rio Tinto:
Clearly identify that you are a Traditional
Owner, and state which language group
you belong to (Banyjima, Innawonga or
Nyiyaparli)
10
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GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
OUR ELDERS
My Story
Dawn Hicks
Banyjima Elder
Director, Gumala
Enterprises Pty Ltd
child, Ronnelle Hicks. She is a
Wittenoom baby and the first of
the next Banyjima generation of
the Mandajiwarrda Clan.
We then had Delvine Hicks (Deli),
and then my baby son Ethan
Hicks. He is my father’s big ubaji
grandson and he will now take
care of his grandfather’s country
for me.
My mum was the Innawonga
Elder and the applicant to the
Innawonga claim group. She
was a bush medicine woman
and she taught this to everyone.
She couldn’t read or write but
she published a book. I love
and admire my mum; she never
let anything stop her from
accomplishing what was needed
to be done.
Coming Home
mum and I called a meeting with
the Government’s Education
Department to ask how they could
help our Innawonga children go
to school. This is how the bus that
runs from Wakuthuni to Tom Price
School today started.
My mum wanted the children
of Wakuthuni to have a good
education, so that’s why we
negotiated with the Government.
My mum wanted the children of
Wakuthuni to have the social skills
to interact with others outside of
their community. My two children,
Ethan and Deli, benefited from this
service.
There is no handicap for
Aboriginal people to utilise
Government structures. You just
have to want it for the best of your
people no matter what it is.
“I WAS SIX MONTHS
OLD WHEN I WAS
GIVEN TO MY
GRANDPARENTS...
IT WAS TRADITIONAL
THAT THE FIRST
BORN WERE GIVEN
IN THIS WAY SO I
WOULD LEARN
THE BANYJIMA
TRADITIONS &
CULTURE.”
I was born Roberta Dawn Parker.
I’m a Banyjima Traditional Elder
and owner of the Banyjima
country. My father was Wobby
Parker and he was the applicant to
the Banyjima Claim.
He was a tribal Lore man. He
was born at old Munjina Station
which is at the top end of Karijini
National Park. This is where he
spent his childhood with his father,
Mandajiwarrda, and his mother,
White Head.
Munjina is where my grandfather’s
father was born at old Digmans
Station where the Rangers
quarters are today. It is now my
responsibility to take care of ‘5
mile’, otherwise known as Windell
Block. This is where my father
has his Lore ground and his bush
camp and where I am now going
to be living and caring for what he
has left behind.
I was six months old when I
was given to my grandparents
Mandajiwarrda and White Head. It
was traditional that the first born
were given in this way so I would
learn the Banyjima traditions and
culture. So, it was tradition that the
grandparents groomed the next
Elder and leader of their Banyjima
country, which is my role now.
My childhood life was growing
up in Munjina and Mulga Downs
station and we lived out at Cowra
out camp which is still there today.
This is where my grandmother
White Head and my grandfather
Mandajiwarrda are buried, at
Mulga Downs station, in his
beloved Banyjima Country.
When my grandfather died I was
given to my mother’s mum, Dora
Gilba, who lived at Wittenoom. My
dad was working out at Rocklea
Station and he had my little
brothers and sister with him.
I finished high school and gained
a job teaching at Wittenoom
Primary School. While I was
working I then helped raise
my little brothers and sisters in
Wittenoom.
I met my husband Les Hicks and
we got married and had our first
My mum organised the first
Homeland Movement home to
Tom Price when she bought her
Innawonga family home. In 1984,
the first homeland Innawonga
meeting was held at Halfway
Bridge. That is how Wakuthuni was
established.
When Wakuthuni was first
established, there was only my
eldest brother, Johnny Parker,
and his wife Dawn with their
four children living in Tom Price.
He was Karijini National Park’s
first Aboriginal Ranger (for the
Department of Environment and
Conservation, which at the time
was called CALM). We all lived
in bough sheds and mum had a
caravan.
My mother and father were so
proud of their big son, and they
loved their daughter in-law, Dawn
Hubert, and their son’s children
Johnnell, Cecilia, Haines and
Jayden who helped mum establish
Wakuthuni along with myself and
my family. My mum was happy she
had brought her family home and
my dad supported her all the way.
The first project of the Wakuthuni
community was education
and schooling. The Wakuthuni
community is 25 kilometres from
the nearest school, which is on
the Tom Price town side. My
Second Project at
Wakuthuni
I started as the first Aboriginal
Islander Education Officer (AIEO),
so that the children wouldn’t be
afraid in this new environment.
When I moved on from the role,
my oldest child Ronnelle took over
as the AIEO at Tom Price central
primary school before moving to
Gumala.
The Yandi Land Use
Agreement
In 1997, my mum, dad and I were
among the original signatories
of the Yandi Land Use Agreement
(YLUA) with Rio Tinto. This was the
founding of Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation.
Today I am one of the last
remaining signatories. My dad
and mum have passed on now but
I am carrying on what they started.
My future hope is to see Gumala
stand the test of time for the future
in every avenue and field.
These Elders could not read or
write so imagine the future for
our children because they can
read and write. Their wishes are
starting to unfold and become a
reality. The world is their oyster.
WE WANT TO
HEAR YOUR
STORY
Gumala wants
to speak to as
many Gumala
Elders as
possible from our
three language
groups, in order
to capture your
stories...
To get the
ball rolling,
please call
Gumala’s PR &
Communications
team on
1800 GUMALA
(1800 486 252)
12
13

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
OUR ARTISTS
Revealing the artist within
The Pilbara is fertile ground
for talented Gumala artists. The
sacred homeland and dreamtime
experience has influenced
many Banyjima, Innawonga and
Nyiyaparli people’s artwork over
the centuries.
Mix dreamtime with natural talent,
creative flair and a passion and
importance to keep their spiritual
and traditional stories alive
throughout the generations have
greatly influenced the artwork
produced by Gumala Members
today.
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s
Indigenous Liaison Officer, Garry
Parker, is no exception.
Well known in the Pilbara for
his wood carvings and artefacts
including boomerangs and
shields, his boomerangs are
often featured at lore closing
ceremonies when used by young
Members.
They are a big seller at Karijini
National Park, often selling out
within two to three days.
Like many other Gumala artists,
he says his artwork is inspired by
both the Pilbara and culture.
“A lot of art in the Pilbara reflects
personal and spiritual stories.”
The Spinifex Art
However, no stranger to art,
Garry’s artistic hand extended
beyond his carvings and artefacts
last year in August when he
learnt how to make lino prints on
spinifex paper.
Under the guidance of the art
teacher at Tom Price Senior High
School, Garry learnt how to make
spinifex paper which requires
boiling the spinifex for 4-5 hours,
pulping it and then screening it.
Combining his passion for
carving, Garry carves designs into
lino squares and with printing ink
and his chosen colours; he prints
pictures onto paper.
The ‘Revealed’ Art
Exhibition
His new talent in spinifex artwork
will be showcased at his first ever
exhibition at the ‘Revealed’ art
exhibition for the first time to a
Perth audience at Gallery Central,
Central Institute of Technology,
from 13 April – 4 May.
‘Revealed’ is an exhibition which
the Department of Culture and
the Arts aims to give emerging
Aboriginal artists in WA the
opportunity to exhibit their
artwork and gain professional
development.
Last year Garry submitted
examples of his artwork to a
pre-submission panel. It was a
competitive entry process with
over 100 artists from 23 centres
submitting pieces.
The exhibition is set to be an
outstanding accomplishment for
Garry after only eight months of
creating spinifex paintings.
Carving: A Natural and
Spiritual Gift
>
they express their personal stories
and paint about their dreaming
places to keep them alive.”
“A lot of my paintings and
artefacts are about identity. I
express my ideas and personal
stories into carving artefacts and
spinifex art,” he said.
It’s a simple message that he
hopes will be passed on to
younger Members:
“A lot of artwork goes back to
culture and keeping your identity
in terms of who you are and where
you are from.
“Keep a lot of your identity
because you won’t be able to do
art from anywhere else except
your identity.”
Gumala’s Indigenous Liaison Officer, Banyjima man Garry
Parker, will be showcasing his spinifex artwork at the
‘Revealed’ art exhibition from 13 April - 4 May in Perth
For the respected traditional
Banyjima man, carving has been
a natural talent and skill handed
down to him by his uncles and
grandfathers since he passed his
cultural stage growing up.
“I like carving, it is just relaxing.
But the linos are much easier than
carving wood. When people do art
“When people
do art they
express their
personal stories
and paint about
their dreaming
places to keep
them alive.”
>
MONEY MATTERS
Money Smart advice – sorting out
your finances
Don’t let another year go by without sorting out your finances.
If you are seeking advice concerning your money matters, The Australian Securities and
Investment Commission (ASIC) have an interactive website for Indigenous and Torres Strait
Islander people with free advice about all aspects of financial topics including budgeting and
saving, borrowing money, cars and mobile phones, door-to-door sales, superannuation, scams
and warnings.
Visit https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/publications/audio/money-talks
Or call their help desk on 1300 365 957.
14
15

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
OUR ELDERS
In Profile
Roma Butcher
Innawonga Elder
Roma Butcher was born in Onslow
100 yards from the hospital, under
a tree.
Her mother did not believe in
going to hospitals to have her
children, so the children she had
were born “out bush.”
Her mother was an Innawonga
Elder and her father was Ngarla
Wongka who was raised by the
Thalanyji people and spoke fluent
Thalanyji.
As a little girl, she was raised
on various stations along the
Ashburton River including
Kooline, Wyloo, Mt. Stuart,
Boolaloo, Nanutarra, Minderoo,
Urala, Glenflorrie and Meilga
Stations where her family was
housed in tin sheds built by the
station managers.
The sheds were basic and hosted
two bedrooms, a kitchen in
the middle and had toilets and
showers outside. The majority of
the time, her mother and aunties
would cook outside on the camp
fire.
There were no cars. The family
moved around on horseback and
owned four horses, two of which
“YOUNG PEOPLE OF TODAY
NEED TO BE DEADLY, SMART
& STRONG”
were used to ride on and two were
pack horses.
Roma recalls fondly that she used
to ride on the back of the horse
with her father. Later, she saw the
introduction of horse-to-sulky
(horse and cart), and then cars.
Growing up on Country:
The Good Old Days
Growing up on the station, Roma
reminisces on a happy childhood
where people were always happy
and joyful “from the inside.”
“People would come home from
their days out mustering and tell
stories by the campfire and would
be laughing and interacting with
everybody.”
“People were always happy,
joking and laughing. They were
not drunk happy as there was no
alcohol or drugs. People worked
on the stations and were happy
without substances,” she said.
She also recalls children had to
be in bed by 4pm. There was no
television or video games and the
countryside was her playground.
Roma, her sister and their friends
would amuse themselves by
chasing lizards, tracking animals,
killing birds and then making fires
to cook and eat them afterwards.
As Roma and her sister grew into
teenagers, their father’s culture
saw that teenage girls were not
allowed to go anywhere near their
father or have any contact with
their fathers. A tradition she has
noticed has changed today.
“Nowadays I see children talking
to their fathers freely. It is different
now.”
Gaining an Early
Education
When Roma started school
in Onslow, the school was
segregated with Aboriginal
children in one building while the
white children went to the Onslow
Primary School. This continued
until the Government built the
Gilliamia Hostel where children
from the outlying stations were
accommodated and were allowed
to attend the Onslow Primary
School.
After Onslow Primary School,
Roma went on to Derby Junior
High. To get there the Aboriginal
children had to fly in a DC3
airplane from Onslow to Port
Hedland and then on to Derby.
Roma boarded at the Amy Bethel
Hostel and went to Derby Junior
High for 3 years until her parents
got her a job as a receptionist
with the Native Welfare Office in
Marble Bar.
It was while working as a
receptionist that Roma met
the future father of her five
children. As a family, they lived in
Carnarvon raising three children
while he worked for the Main
Roads Department bitumising the
Great Northern Highway to Whim
Creek. The family lived along
the main roads in tents using a
kerosene fridge and freezer to
store food. Cooking food was
done in a camp fire outside.
Paving a career in
Teaching
Eventually, Roma and her
five children moved back to
Onslow where she worked as an
Aboriginal Islander and Education
Officer (AIEO) at the Onslow
School for five years.
Roma later met Paul Butcher
who was later to become her
current husband. They married in
Adelaide in the Botanical Gardens.
In her early 30s, Roma moved to
Adelaide in South Australia and
enrolled as a mature aged student
at the South Australian University
at the Underdale Campus.
“I did a Bachelor of Teaching
degree. Paul was the driving force
behind me going to university and
getting my degree.
He was my main support while
going to university and we
supported each other as well as
having support around us.”
“We were also raising three boys
while we were studying. My kids
went back to live in Onslow to live
with my brother when they grew
up. Without my family’s help none
of this would have been possible.”
Giving back to the
Communities
Five years after she began her
teaching degree, Roma graduated
and paved a successful career
teaching in South Australia and
Onslow (where she was a L.O.T.E
teacher and taught children
the Banyjima language). Roma
was then transferred to Fitzroy
Crossing District High School.
She taught in 36 communities in
the Fitzroy Crossing Valley area
as a remote mobile kindergarten
teacher.
“There were 36 communities in
and around the Fitzroy Crossing
Valley area and as a Remote
Teacher I had to cover most of
those communities.
“I had a wonderful teacher aide
who knew everyone and she was
really good with the children and
knew the languages that most
people in the communities spoke
which was an absolute advantage
for me.”
After four years in the Kimberley,
Roma returned to her homeland in
Paraburdoo, where she taught for
six years and has continued to live
today.
Roma’s Advice: Be Deadly,
Smart and Strong
Today, as a respected Innawonga
Elder, Roma is calling on the
younger generation to be
“deadly, smart and strong”. This is
something that was told to her by
Aboriginal School Principal Chris
Sarris.
“From my own experience I went
through tall poppy syndrome. That
is when you are highly educated
and other people tend to want
Roma pictured with her Bachelor of
Teaching degree on graduation day
to knock you down and tread on
you. So my advice to the younger
generation is to just make sure you
get ahead in life.
“Then you will have two things;
your culture and your education.
No-one can take that away from
you.
“Always live curiously, always
ask why and never be ignorant.
Ignorance is not bliss.”
She is also encouraging the
younger generation to stay deadly,
smart and strong in their Lore and
Culture.
“Today there are a lot of drugs
and alcohol which are killing
our communities and Lore and
Culture.
Our language is also fading
away because nobody has been
strong enough to stand up and be
counted. Language needs to be
taught in the schools so it can be
brought back so that everybody
can speak it,” she said.
“Everyone has what it takes to
be someone and education is
paramount. Stand up and be
counted. Do not hide away.”
16
17

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
KEY APPOINTMENT
Gumala appoints Member
Solutions & Training Manager
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation is pleased to
announce the recent appointment of Member
Solutions & Training Manager Marie Hayes.
Marie was appointed to the position in early
2013, bringing with her a wealth of experience in
managing workforce development and developing
training centres.
In Profile
Ken Ingie
OUR ELDERS
Marie holds a Masters in Business Administration
and has extensive experience working in the
public sector in workforce planning and HR for
the Department of Commerce, the Public Sector
Commission and the Department of Education.
Innawonga Elder
She has been involved in the public sector, Aboriginal
Traineeship scheme and the Attention and Retention
of Teachers in Remote Areas.
Originally from Mauritius, Marie immigrated to
Australia in 2005.
Upon her appointment at Gumala she said she had a
strong interest in making a difference to the welfare
of Aboriginal people especially in training and
workforce development.
Member Solutions and Training Manager
Marie Hayes
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Cultural Amphitheatre
design refinements underway
Design plans for the cultural amphitheatre and tourist accommodation
units to be built at Karijini Eco Retreat are currently being refined by
Gumala’s Community Development Team.
This is expected to be followed by a design and construct contract
being entered into. Once completed, the facility will consist of a cultural
amphitheatre, four 8-bed dorm style accommodation units, and an
ablution block.
Gumala plans to provide training and employment opportunities for
Members wherever possible during the construction phase of the
project.
Gumala remains fully committed to
the Homeland Movement vision
Gumala is continuing to provide support to our Members who live on
traditional country.
This includes continued support in our homeland communities in
the following areas: community maintenance, community assistance,
community housing maintenance, community capital works, and lore
camp upgrades. Gumala is also progressing efforts to secure Land
Tenure at our homeland communities.
Housing
Strategy
expansion plans
In addition to Gumala’s South
Hedland and Tom Price Housing
Projects, Gumala is currently
exploring other opportunities
to provide affordable housing
solutions for Members living in
regional centres in the Pilbara.
Gumala’s Housing Projects
are part of Gumala’s Pilbara
Housing Strategy, which targets
affordable housing solutions
for Gumala Members.
The strategy involves sourcing
land and constructing
appropriate residential
accommodation for our
Members to rent in the Pilbara.
Ken Ingie was born and raised in
Onslow on various cattle stations
around the country.
An Innawonga Elder, Ken
now resides on his traditional
homeland of Bellary Springs
community.
While Bellary Springs community
is his homeland, Ken remembers
growing up with his siblings
- Warren, Stuart Snr and June -
on different stations including
Ashburton Downs and Mt Stuart.
“My mother and father were
both Innawonga Traditional
Owners and so were both my
grandmothers. But we did not
get the opportunity to grow up
on country in our younger days
because we were exiled to the
stations,” he said.
Childhood Memories
Growing up on the stations Ken
remembers they were able
to keep their culture alive by
practising Lore and Culture,
speaking fluent Innawonga, and
traditional dancing.
He also remembers a time of
‘citizenship rights’ when he was
growing up. If you didn’t have
citizenship rights you were not
allowed to drink or go places
so you were not influenced by
alcohol.
“Growing up we had a lot of
traditional dances. It’s difficult to
do this today as we all live apart,”
he said.
“I just hope that the younger
generation can keep our Lore and
Culture going but I would like
to see more dancing. I hope that
they can keep the dream alive.
Don’t wander away from what you
are taught and keep our customs
going,” he said.
Keeping his Culture Alive
Today Ken keeps his culture alive
by going for walks in the bush,
on camping trips and showing
younger Members what is on
country. Having grown up in his
culture, Ken believes that being an
Elder means being “someone who
has the knowledge of the customs
and everything that goes with the
land.”
Ken moved to Bellary Springs later
in life with his family from Onslow.
The family asked the station owner
in Rocklea about moving back and
were given Innawonga land back
to use.
Views on Gumala
“We were already living here
before Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation came along.”
“Since Gumala came along, CEO
Steve Mav has done a lot of good
things. There was no funding for
communities. Steve has come
along and has supported the
setting up a lot of programs,” he
said.
18
19

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
HEALTH
Gumala Member makes her
mark as a health professional
A Gumala Scholarship graduate
is working hard to improve
Indigenous health and give back
to her community following six
years of dedicated study.
Banyjima woman and midwife,
Alicia Bellotti, has been working
at Geraldton Regional Hospital for
a year since she graduated from
Curtin University in 2011.
A year into her dream profession,
Alicia says she is enjoying being a
role model for her people.
“What inspired me to become a
nurse and midwife is that I wanted
to have a better understanding
about health issues and wanted
to personally contribute to
improving our Indigenous Health,”
she said.
“The aspect of my job as a
registered nurse and midwife that
I enjoy is being a role model to the
20
Above & below: Alicia completed
a Registered Nursing Degree
and Post Graduate Diploma in
Midwifery
people in the community, caring
and supporting people in times
of need and I love interacting
with people and sharing my
knowledge.”
It has been a long academic
journey into the health sector.
Alicia began her studies in 2005
with a Certificate 3 in Home and
Community Care, Certificate 3 in
Aged Care Work and a Certificate
4 in Health Science Foundation
at TAFE (2006), and a Diploma in
Enrolled Nursing at TAFE.
Alicia then went on to complete
her Registered Nursing degree
at Curtin University before
graduating with a Post Graduate
Diploma in Midwifery.
“My journey has been interesting
over the past six to seven years.
It has been jammed packed with
study, kids, family commitments
and I must say fun along the way.”
Alicia was also motivated to
continue on her path when she
received several unexpected
achievements throughout her
studies.
Last year she was named the 2012
Aboriginal Health Category Nurse
of the Year in the WA Nursing and
Midwifery Excellence Awards.
NAIDOC Scholar of the
Year
It is her latest achievement on top
of being named the 2009 NAIDOC
Scholar of the Year, Geraldton
and the 2007 Aboriginal and
Vocational Student of the Year.
“Unexpected achievements
have kept me going and I feel
comfortable where I am in my
life. Focus and determination are
probably the two best words I
can sum up to explain how I have
survived.”
“I hold my head up high because
my achievements are simply part
of that self-discovery process for
me. I am finally in a confident
position and concentrating on
things that are important to me, my
kids, my family and the Aboriginal
community,” she said.
Gumala supported Alicia through
her studies with an education
scholarship. Today, Alicia is
encouraging other Members,
young or old to make the most of
the opportunities Gumala offers
and access education scholarships
to pursue and fulfil their dreams.
“Through the services that
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
provides, Members are able
to access a variety of learning
resources and services which
allow them to gain the required
skills to achieve employment in
their chosen fields of work.”
“Through education and
employment, Aboriginal people
are seen as role models not only
by their family and peers but
also to the wider Aboriginal
community,” she said.
Gumala appoints Health Specialist
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
has appointed Robyn Withnell to
the position of Health Specialist.
Robyn brings with her a wealth
of experience of working with
Aboriginal people in remote and
urban settings.
Robyn originally started working
with Gumala in April 2012 as
Personal Assistant to the General
Manager of Governance.
She holds a Graduate Certificate
in Indigenous Sector Management
and has worked with Indigenous
and not for profit organisations for
30 years.
Gumala kick-starts plans for
health services expansion
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation is
planning to enhance the already
established medical programs
available to Gumala Members
and also expand services in the
following areas:
Renal Dialysis
Gumala’s Health Specialist Robyn
Withnell has begun working
on establishing a Community
Supported Home Dialysis facility
in Tom Price and advocating for
members who dialyse in various
other locations throughout the
state.
The West Australian State
Government has a Renal Health
Plan 2010 – 2021 and Tom Price
is not expected to have renal
Gumala Health Specialist Robyn
Withnell
dialysis services available at the
hospital within those years.
As part of Robyn’s role she is
hoping to connect with renal
dialysis patients or their family
members to learn from their
experiences and identify specific
needs of Gumala members
suffering from kidney disease.
Access to Community
Controlled Health Services
in Tom Price region
Gumala is keen to see an
Aboriginal Medical Service
operating out of Tom Price and
discussions are underway to see
this initiative take shape.
This may take some time, but
the goal is to see a culturally
Her career has seen her work in
health with the Derbarl Yerrigan
Health Service for 16 years, in
education with Community and
Youth Training Services (3 years)
and in the drug and alcohol sector
with the Aboriginal Alcohol and
Drug Service (3 years).
Robyn has also had the amazing
experience of living and working
in the remote Aboriginal
communities of Jigalong in the
Pilbara and Mowanjum in the
Kimberley.
appropriate health service
available to Members in the
region.
If you are passionate about this
initiative, Gumala is calling for
expressions of interest from
Gumala Members living in the
Tom Price region, who would like
to be involved in the ‘Gumala
Health Committee’ (see further
details on page 5).
Gumala Members wishing to raise
any other issues related to health
are encouraged to contact Robyn:
Email robyn.withnell@gumala.
com.au
Phone: 1800 GUMALA (1800 486
252).
“GUMALA IS KEEN TO SEE AN ABORIGINAL MEDICAL SERVICE OPERATING OUT OF TOM
PRICE AND DISCUSSIONS ARE UNDERWAY TO SEE THIS INITIATIVE TAKE SHAPE.”
HEALTH
21

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
HEALTH
A health message from Gumala
Kidney disease – the growing epidemic
22
By Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation’s Health
Specialist Robyn Withnell
One-third of Australians are at risk of kidney disease. More worrying is that most people are
unaware of these risks. The number of Aboriginal people with end stage kidney disease who
need dialysis treatment has increased by more than 96% since 1991, and is 7 times the rate for
other Australians. (ATSI Health Performance Framework 2012)
Today, one in seven Australians show at least one indicator of kidney damage, however, in many
cases, a person can lose up to 90 per cent of their kidney function before experiencing any
symptoms.
The rate of kidney failure is steadily climbing in Australia, with the number of cases rising
by around six per cent each year. The good news is that with EARLY DETECTION, the right
medication and management plan, the progression of Chronic Kidney Disease can be slowed
significantly.
WHAT DO KIDNEYS DO?
The kidneys play a major role in maintaining your
general health and wellbeing. Think of them as an
extremely sophisticated, environmentally friendly,
waste disposal system which sorts non-recyclable
waste from recyclable waste, 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, while also cleaning your blood.
Every hour, your body’s blood supply circulates
through the kidneys around 12 times. Each day, your
kidneys process around 190 litres of blood, with
around one-to-two litres of waste leaving the body
as urine. Much of this waste is produced by the body
as it processes the food you eat.
HOW DO KIDNEYS WORK?
Most people are born with two kidneys, each one about the size
of an adult fist, bean-shaped and weighing around 150 grams. The
kidneys are located at both sides of your backbone, just under the
rib cage or above the small of your back, and are protected from
injury by a large padding of fat, your lower ribs and several muscles.
In each kidney, blood is filtered through 225 kilometres of tubes
and millions of mini-filters called ‘nephrons’. The excess fluid and
unwanted chemicals from this filtering process become urine
and are passed from the kidneys to your bladder. The kidneys also
play a role in the production and regulation of several important
hormones and enzymes, which help to:
• Control blood pressure
• Make red blood cells
• Maintain strong and healthy bones
All this makes the kidneys a vital player in your body’s mechanism
and your overall health.
HOW DO WE KNOW WHEN OUR KIDNEYS ARE ‘PLAYING UP’?
Many people suffering with kidney disease show no signs of
decreasing kidney function, which means that kidney disease goes
undiagnosed and therefore untreated. In fact, as many as 2.3 million
Australians may be affected by early-stage kidney disease and not
know it. Don’t let yourself be one of these people!
As kidney function decreases, waste begins to build up in the
blood. Symptoms of this – if they are present – may include feeling
sick, vomiting and loss of appetite. Some people may also notice
a change in the number of times they need to pass urine and the
amount which is passed.
Other symptoms of kidney disease may also include extreme
tiredness, shortness of breath, swelling of the hands, face and feet,
headaches, high blood pressure and blood in the urine. These
symptoms may worsen gradually as kidney function declines. So
please have your kidney function checked if you have any of the
above-mentioned symptoms.
HOW CAN WE REDUCE THE RISK OF KIDNEY DISEASE?
The evidence shows that lifestyle factors can increase the risk
of kidney disease. Smoking causes narrowing of the arteries
including the small vessels that are in the filtering section of your
kidneys. Excessive alcohol consumption makes your kidneys
produce more urine than normal and excessive drinking can have
a negative impact on other parts of the body that may contribute
to kidney damage, such as the liver. Alcohol has high sugar
content and may cause weight gain which may lead to diabetes,
which is the most common cause of kidney disease in Australia.
Although the liver is the main processing centre for cholesterol,
when we eat animal fats, it returns the cholesterol it can’t use
back in to the blood stream. This cholesterol can build up into
fatty deposits which can cause the arteries to narrow and can
eventually block the arteries altogether, leading to heart disease
and stroke.
Heart disease and kidney disease go hand in hand. Heart disease
affects the blood vessels such as your arteries and veins. High
blood pressure affects the kidneys by putting more stress on the
body’s blood vessels, including the kidney filters. If high blood
pressure continues unchecked, it can cause vessels to become
thickened and narrowed, leading to a reduced blood supply. The
final effect is to reduce kidney function by starving the kidneys of
oxygen and nutrients. Stress can cause high blood pressure, so it
is important to live your life as stress free as possible.
Some kidney disease is hereditary due to Polycystic Kidney Disease so if you have
a family member with kidney disease, please have regular check-ups and tell your
doctor about the family history.
Why not make an appointment with your doctor to have a kidney function test? It
can be as simple as a urine test to detect indications of any problems. It’s better
to find out early so treatment can slow and even prevent the path to renal dialysis.
This step could add years onto your life.
Source of information: Kidney Health Australia
We can lose up
to 90% of our
kidney function
before having
any signs or
symptoms
HEALTH
CUT YOUR RISK
• Control blood pressure
• Stay fit and eat well
• Maintain healthy
weight
• Watch cholesterol
• Reduce stress
• Reduce alcohol intake
• Be a non-smoker
If you would like
to quit smoking,
call Robyn to
discuss options
available to you:
1800 GUMALA
(1800 486252)
23

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
OUR ELDERS
GUMALA
Aboriginal
Corporation
ICN 2744
Expression of Interest (EOI)
is called from Gumala Members who would like to
be considered to represent the membership on
the Gumala Health Commiteee
Q & A:
Nyiyaparli
Elder
If you:
• Are passionate about health and related issues
• Want to lobby hard for equality of services for people living in the Tom Price
Peter
Derschaw
region
• Want to investigate an Aboriginal Medical Service for Tom Price
• Understand that health relates to many issues not just medical
• Know that Aboriginal health is managed best in Aboriginal hands
Then submit an Expression of Interest (a letter to the Chairman) detailing why you
think you would be a strong Health Committee member.
This will be a voluntary role with no sitting fees paid.
People in Tom Price are encouraged to apply as the first initiatives will focus on the
Tom Price region.
Submit to:
Gumala Health Commitee
C/- The Chairman of GAC
PO Box 28
Tom Price W.A. 6751
Or hand deliver to Reception at GAC in Tom Price or Level 1/165 Adelaide Terrace East
Perth
Closing Date: 15 th April 2013
Where is your traditional
homeland?
I was born at Woodstock Station in
the Pilbara in 1942 and my birth
was registered in Marble Bar.
Marble Bar has always been my
home and I lived there for 68
years.
I worked all around the Marble
Bar area including places like
Newman and Pannawonica,
working as a plant operator on the
construction and formation of the
railway lines into Port Hedland.
Are there any special
childhood memories about
growing up on country that
you would like to share?
I spent most of my childhood at
the Comet mine, 6 miles west of
Marble Bar.
We were always going out bush
and surviving off bush tucker.
My grandad used to teach me all
about our traditions and culture
and his love of the bush.
When I turned 14, I went to
Geraldton to continue my
education at Geraldton Senior
High School.
I left school, returned to the
Pilbara, where I worked on sheep
and cattle stations along the
DeGrey, Oakover and Nullagine
rivers.
Where do you live now?
I have lived in Geraldton for the
past two years.
As a founding Member
of Gumala, how has it
changed since it started in
1996?
I was one of four founding
Nyiyaparli Traditional Owners
who attended the first meeting in
Youngaleena in 1996 and signed
the Yandi Land Use Agreement.
For five years before the Yandi
Land Use Agreement was signed
in 1997, I would travel from Marble
Bar to Tom Price for meetings.
These meetings were held in the
bush and we lived off the land in
order to attend them.
Once the agreement was
signed between Rio Tinto and
the Nyiyaparli, Banyjima and
Innawonga people, I continued
to attend meetings for another 5
years.
Gumala has grown since then from
about 60 people in the beginning
into the large membership that we
have today.
The hard work we put in at the
beginning in tough circumstances
has meant that current Gumala
Members can enjoy a lot of
programs, such as the Health and
Wellbeing Programs.
24
For More information, please call Robyn Withnell (Gumala Health Specialist) on 1800
486 252
“I WAS ONE OF FOUR FOUNDING NYIYAPARLI TRADITIONAL OWNERS
WHO ATTENDED THE FIRST MEETING IN YOUNGALEENA IN 1996 AND
SIGNED THE YANDI LAND USE AGREEMENT.”
25

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
OUR YOUTH
Year 12 graduate wins place at
University of Melbourne law school
Hard work and dedication has
paid off for a Gumala Scholarship
student at Melbourne Girl’s
College. Graduate student Karri
Walker has been accepted into
the University of Melbourne’s
prestigious Melbourne Law
School.
Karri has officially accepted
a place at the University of
Melbourne, where she will study
towards a Law degree.
A conscientious work ethic and
hard work has paid off for the
young Nyiyaparli woman, who
received a 92.75 percent ATAR
“Hotrod” helps his team take out State
Championships for third year running
A young teeball champion and
his team took out the WA State
Championships at Langley Park
in Perth for the third consecutive
year at the beginning of March.
Young Banyjima athlete, Harrison
White (9), was selected to play
with the Kalamunda Rangers
Interdistrict Team, in the Teeball
Association of WA’s State
Championships.
Over the last two years, Harrison
and his team have won the State
Championship back to back in the
Under 9s and Under 10s ‘A’ grade
division. This year, they went in
hoping to win for the third year in
a row in the Under 11s.
In the lead up to the State
Championships, Harrison and his
team have competed in three Pre-
State Carnivals, winning 11 out of
12 games.
Proud mother Karen White, who
is also the team’s 3rd Base Coach
and Manager, said:
“We are very proud of Harrison.
He thoroughly enjoys playing
teeball and is currently positioned
pitcher, second base and outfield.
26
Karri Walker
“He is known by his team mates as
Hotrod as he is one of the fastest
runners in the team.”
His father, Gumala Member
Harry White said: “We are very
score last year.
As a result, Karri was offered
positions at either Monash
University or the University
of Melbourne, where she was
also invited to meet the Vice
Chancellor at a lunch before
Christmas.
Karri’s mother, Gumala Member
Kate Walker said:
“We would all like to say a big
thank you for the education
support Gumala has provided to
our family. We really appreciate
everything.”
proud of our son and what he has
achieved. He is dedicated and
trains very hard, up to 6 hours per
week. My wife and I are at every
game supporting Harrison and his
team.”
Over the last three years Gumala
has also supported Harrison with
financial support for fees, uniforms
and equipment. Gumala supports
its Members and their children in
their sporting pursuits. The aim
of the sport funding support is to
help improve the participation
of Gumala Members and their
children in sport by providing a
funding subsidy for activities and
events.
Harrison is pictured with his team, left, and his family, right, (four
generations of his family: Harry White, father; Daphne White, great
grandmother; Harrison; and Kaye Jones, grandmother)
Young Champion Boxer takes home
Gold at National Championships
Young champion boxer Julian
Jeakings was crowned gold
medalist at the 2013 Australian
Boxing Championships in
Adelaide in February.
Julian (14), who is the son of
Gumala Member and employee
Paula White, took out the
competition for a second year
running.
Last February, Julian took home
the gold medal at the Australian
Boxing Championships in Hobart.
His latest success is a step in
the right direction on the path
to fulfilling his dream of being a
world champion boxer.
Julian, who has been boxing
since he was 9 years old, is now
focused on his trip to China at
the end of March. Both he and his
older brother Jayden, who is also
a champion boxer, will take part
in a training camp where they will
compete against national teams
from Russia and Kazakhstan.
Julian also hopes to qualify for the
World Youth Boxing Titles in the
future.
“One day I want to qualify for the
Junior Olympics and then work my
way up to world Olympic level,”
he said.
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
supports Julian’s boxing through
scholarship funding.
Julian Jeakings with his back-to-back Australian Boxing Championships
gold medals
Supporting our Traditional Owners
through Gumala scholarships
Gumala scholarships are currently provided to over 90
Gumala students (Members/Beneficiaries) in order to assist
in their goals of outstanding achievements in their chosen
fields. This includes academic (school, undergraduate and
postgraduate), the arts, music and sport.
OUR YOUTH
27

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
Register of
Traditional
Owners letter
Gumala Traditional
Owners who have
recently received a
letter from the Trustee
of the General Gumala
Foundation, Gumala
Investments Pty Ltd
(GIPL), regarding the
“Register of Traditional
Owners” should note
the following:
Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation (GAC)
wishes to advise all
Members that the
letter itself, as well
as the decisions and
advice contained in
this letter, are from
GIPL.
Any calls or contacts
regarding Beneficiary
Status and the Register
should be referred to
GIPL immediately.
Gumala Investments
Pty Ltd (GIPL) contact
details:
Phone: (08) 9287 3900
Email: administration@
gumalatrust.com
Member Services Notices
SMS Service
Gumala recently launched an
SMS service, which allows us to
send text messages to Gumala
Members to advise of important or
urgent information.
It is therefore vitally important that
Gumala always has your current
mobile phone number on record.
If we do not have your current
mobile phone number, please call
Member Services on 1800 486 252
so that we can update your details.
Applications on
Friday
When submitting an application to
Gumala on a Friday, please ensure
applications are received by our
office well before 2PM if possible.
This will provide the Member
Solutions Officers with
enough time to process urgent
applications before the office
closes.
Your Patience is
Appreciated
In addition to the large volumes
of applications Gumala receivesd
from Members, our Member
Solutions Officers also answer
hundreds of phone calls each day,
in which they provide Members
with a wide range of advice and
assistance.
We thank Members for your
understanding and we appreciate
your patience in waiting for us to
get to your call.
Lodging
Applications
As part of our long term vision
of increasing the quality of
service, we would be grateful
to receive your application by
email to enable fast and efficient
processing.
If you are unable to email your
completed form, please fax it to
us or drop it off in person at our
offices.
Remember, no matter which
method you choose, always check
that you have:
(i) completed and signed the form,
and
(ii) sent with the form any other
supporting documents required.
Otherwise there will be delays in
processing the application.
The email address to send
applications to (with the subject
line: Gumala application form) is
gac@gumala.com.au
Education
Reminders
A completed Gumala Education
application form must be
submitted to Gumala with each
request to recieve education
funding.
Remember to include
supporting documents,
including tax invoices.
Scholarship students must
submit copies of their report
and results from their education
provider every six months to
continue receiving support.
Early Childhood Learning
Centre news
TRUSTEE LETTER MEMBER SERVICES EDUCATION
It has been a busy first year for
the 3A educational program at
our Early Childhood Centre in
Wakuthuni.
The program wrapped up with
special Christmas celebrations in
December.
On the day of the Christmas party
everyone in the community was
invited to attend.
The teachers organised special
Christmas craft activities and
games, followed by a lovely
morning tea, with presents for the
children. A wonderful time was
had by all!
Also in December, three Master of
Teaching Students attended a two
week practicum at the Wakuthuni
centre.
The three students from the
University of Melbourne came
to Wakuthuni to gain invaluable
hands on experience in
implementing 3A in an Indigenous
community.
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation’s
unique Early Childhood Centre
and 3A (Abecedarian Approach
Australia) learning program at our
remote community at Wakuthuni
are a result of the innovative
partnership between Gumala, The
University of Melbourne and The
Tom Price Primary School.
The initiative involved the design
and construction of an early
education centre at Wakuthuni,
as well as an early childhood
education and care program (the
3A Project).
Gumala’s 3A program is producing
‘school ready’ children such as Jaidah
and Benji Limerick
3A (Abecedarian
Approach Australia)
In 2012 the 3A Project was
given official endorsement via
a partnership agreement by WA
Education Minister Peter Collier.
The 3A Project uses learning
strategies which incorporate
educational games, conversational
reading and enriched care giving.
The approach also assists parents
through education on appropriate
care-giving and learning activities
for their children.
The West Pilbara Communities
for Children also supports the 3A
Project.
by Gumala’s Education
Manager Lynne Beckingham
All of the students reported what
a fantastic time they had and how
much they enjoyed working with
the community, parents, children
and 3A staff.
Gumala wish them well in their
future studies and hope the
program can be host to more
students in the future.
We are so excited that a number
of children who attended 3A
at Wakuthuni in 2012 have
progressed to school in 2013.
We have a student who is
attending Kindergarten a few days
per week and also one who is
attending year one.
In term four in 2012, one of the 3A
teachers, Rochelle Hooper began
her maternity leave.
Gumala would like to extend our
congratulations to Rochelle and
her husband on the birth of their
daughter.
Education
Team
to visit
schools
Education Manager, Lynne
Beckingham and Education
Specialist, Beverly Gill, are
planning to visit several
schools in the Pilbara this
year. These visits are part
of Gumala’s education
plan to establish additional
agreements with schools
that will enable the
streamlining of processes
with the schools and parents.
28
29

GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013 GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
HUMAN RIGHTS
Gumala supports United Nations
“International Day for the Elimination
of Racial Discrimination”
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
stands by the United Nations (UN)
as it calls for the international
community to observe the
annual International Day
for the Elimination of Racial
Discrimination, which was recently
observed on March 21.
Across the world many
individuals, communities and
societies suffer from racism and
the negative impacts it has on
their lives. However, the first
article of the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights declares that “all
human beings are born equal in
dignity and rights.”
Therefore, every year the UN calls
on the international community
to observe the day and to be
reminded of the part we all play
to combat racial discrimination
and its negative consequences.
Gumala fully supports the aims of
the Elimination of Discrimination
Day.
UN Secretary-General, Ban
Ki-moon: “Racism continues to
cause suffering for millions of
people around the world...I look
to all people to join the United
Nations in our drive to eliminate
racism. We must, individually and
collectively, stamp out racism,
stigma and prejudice.”
On the home front, an alarming
amount of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islanders feel that
30
they experience racism in their
everyday lives in Australia.
Reconciliation Australia
reported in 2012 that 93 percent
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Australians believed that
the levels of prejudice towards
them are ‘very high’ or ‘fairly
high’.
One Gumala Member interviewed
by Gumala News said that she
does not notice the discrimination
as much in the Pilbara as she does
when she goes to the city.
On one particular occasion she
felt discriminated against in the
city when she pre-booked a taxi
that failed to stop and pick her up.
She said the she was waiting
patiently for the taxi to come.
When it finally arrived, the driver
ignored her and pick up a white
man near by. On another occasion
she was standing in front of a hotel
in the city after pre-booking her
taxi. The taxi came and just drove
right past her.
“But those things don’t faze me.
I’m comfortable in my own skin,”
she said confidently.
In July last year, the Australian
Human Rights Association
launched the National Anti-Racism
strategy. Around 350 organisations
including Reconciliation Australia
have joined forces with the
commission on the campaign.
At the time of the launch,
Reconciliation Australia co-chair,
Dr Tom Calma said:
“Raising the issue of racism
is uncomfortable for many
Australians - and is even resented
– but the reality is it still affects
so many Australians every single
day.”
“We know that Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander Australians
continue to experience high levels
of direct and indirect racism and I
think it’s time to have some tough
conversations to really stop and
think about how we can all work
together to address this serious
issue.
“Stronger relationships, built on
shared knowledge and respect,
are a key part of reducing the
level of racism experienced
by Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples…”
This year will mark the 47th
observation of the day which
was officially declared a UN
day of observance in 1966 in
remembrance of the victims
who were killed in the infamous
Sharpeville massacre six years
earlier.
On March 21, 1960, police in
South Africa opened fire at a
peaceful demonstration against
the Apartheid ‘pass laws’ in
Sharpeville, killing 69 people.
Gumala farewells long
standing executive manager
Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
would like to sincerely thank
outgoing General Manager
Innovation & Services, Francois
Langlois, for the five years of
dedicated and invaluable service
he provided to the organisation
and its Members.
During Francois’ time at
Gumala, he was one of the key
executive managers behind the
transformation of the organisation.
Francois helped establish and
grow the Member Services Unit
(MSU), which has been rebranded
as Gumala’s Member Solutions
Team. He was also a key figure in
the capacity building process that
has taken place in our Perth and
Tom Price offices.
Francois was pivotal to the many
achievements and successes
right across our Member
Services Division,including
many Community Development
Projects.
The Board and Management of
Gumala wish Francois all the very
best in his future endeavours.
GAC’s outgoing General Manager Innovation and Services, Francois
Langlois, flanked by GAC Chief Executive Officer Steve Mav and GAC
Board of Directors Secretary David MacLean. Francois was gifted with
a beautiful piece of original artwork painted by Gumala Member and
renowned Pilbara artist Nina Smith
Interested
in working
for
Gumala?
Gumala Members
who are interested
in working at
Gumala Aboriginal
Corporation should
email their resumes
and a covering letter
to:
jobs@gumala.com.
au
Our HR department
maintains an up-todate
database of
candidates.
Specific Gumala
job vacancies are
advertised on our
website from time to
time:
www.gumala.com.
au/careers
WORK MATTERS
Tom Price
“Work Ready”
Program open
for expressions
of interest
Expressions of interest from
Gumala Members for the Rio Tinto
Work Ready Program in Tom Price
are now open.
Interested Members should
contact Gumala’s Operations
Manager - Pilbara, Lisa Shields, by
April 19:
1 Stadium Road, Tom Price
Ph (08) 9188 4500
31

COMMUNITY RADIO
GUMALA NEWS EASTER 2013
Gumala Radio hits the ground
running in 2013
Thunurrdu!
for outdoor broadcasts. We are many Members. Nigel received
also aiming to start Gumala workshops Radio wants
Hello listeners, it has been a busy
a positive
your
response
voice
from the
in the communities to give kids
start to the year at Gumala Radio.
community who are excited
Gumala Radio is a beacon for promoting Indigenous news, culture, stories and local music to the
hands on experience and to
We have hit the ground running
to see music going out to the
communities of Tom Price, Paraburdoo, Bellary Springs, Wakathuni, Youngaleena, Onslow and
with some big projects in store for
further encourage them with
Roebourne.
communities with workshops and
2013.
radio. Gumala Radio Technician
Gumala Radio reviving its outdoor
The aim Mike of a Ryan community is also radio planning station is to not do only to provide
One of the biggest projects we
broadcasts local content for the for kids. its listeners but also
encourage upgrades community and maintenance participation. at
have started with this year is a couple of Gumala homeland I am looking forward to doing
the setup and upgrade of our Radio communities can be used as later a powerful this year. tool for communication more into outdoor the Gumala broadcasts and the wider in
recording studios. We are setting community to explore and speak about issues and current
up a ‘recording/live broadcast While Nigel Bird was in Tom
the communities events that are and relevant events to its listeners
and bring communities together.
studio’ in the old Member
Price, he had a successful visit to this year and working with our
Solutions Team’s office.
Wakuthuni.
Elders to record their stories and
Gumala Radio is looking at expanding its programming in 2013 and providing fresh new content.
knowledge. Until then, be safe
In February, WAM’s Project
While he was there, a community
For this to be successful Gumala Radio would like to and extend take an care. invitation to any Gumala member
Officer, Nigel Bird, came on board meeting was called, so it was
or community member that has any story ideas or topics that they would like to hear on the
as a consultant to help set up the an ideal time for Nigel to meet Tadam Lockyer
radio.
studio. Through this new project
Gumala Radio’s
we are also hoping to encourage If you would like to get involved in any way, whether through participating in a program, being
Administration Officer Elly
Elders and Members to come in interviewed or providing ideas about stories and programming please Lukale feel free (top) send & Broadcaster
your
and share and record their stories requests through to radio@gumala.com.au for consideration or if you Tadam have any Lockyer feedback about
with Gumala Radio.
our programming.
We want to make sure that the
new studio is friendly enough to
enable our Elders to be seated
around microphones, telling
stories, singing in language and
sharing knowledge, whilst also
making it flexible enough that
visiting musicians and locals can
broadcast live and record their
own material.
Gumala Radio is also
investigating the possibility
of securing music equipment
for “recording/broadcasting
sessions” which we can also
take out to the communities
Gumala Radio will be closing midday, 24 th December 2012 and re-opening Monday 7 th January
2013. We would like to wish you all a very safe and Merry Christmas and stay tuned to Gumala
Radio in 2013.
Gumala Broadcaster John "Tadam" Lockyer
or listen live:
www.gumala.com.au
Listen to Gumala Radio Live at
www.gumala.com.au
Tom Price (Head Office):
1 Stadium Road
Tom Price, Western Australia
Perth (Administration Office):
Level 1, 165 Adelaide Terrace
East Perth, Western Australia
GUMALA
Aboriginal
Corporation
32
ICN 2744
Phone: 1800 486 252 (1800 GUMALA)
Fax: (08) 9219 4555
Postal Address: PO Box 3167, East Perth WA 6892
Email: gac@gumala.com.au Web: www.gumala.com.au