On Wednesday 9th and Thursday 10th September Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation (DAC) held its annual Members Information Day and AGM at Derby Airport. More than 80 members came together over the two days with DAC Directors, staff, partners and consultants to discuss the year that’s been, and plans, programs and pathways forward.  

Members Information Day 

On day one, the DAC team and its partners AWC, DBCA and DPIRD shared Operational updates; 

  • Healthy Country work and Rangers,  
  • Marine Parks and joint management,  
  • partnerships,  
  • Yampi Sound Training Area and compensation claim, 
  • cultural programs,  
  • economic development,  
  • tourism, 
  • media and communications, 
  • Koolan Island update and the path forward with the ceasing of mining on the island, 
  • Crestlink update on Cockatoo Island operations,  
  • Department of Defence updated on access and activities on Yampi Sound as well as Heritage Protection Proposal.  

CEO Paul Morgan shared the DAC strategic pillars endorsed by the Board, which, after discussion and a show of hands, was supported by the members to go forward for further discussion to embed cultural governance in the strategic plan. 

AGM 

The following day at the AGM, Chair, Gary Umbagai presented the Chairperson Report and Work Ready Program Officer Ben Hokianga introduced the new Wuddgam Wenee “work ready” program with wrap-around support for members as well as Aboriginal people in the region. The new program has a “Good Way” framework to support members transition into the workforce and a dedicated team, DAN – Dambimangari Aboriginal Navigation, to deliver the program. 

Positive reports were also presented by the Auditor Robert Campbell and the Secretary to the AET (Trust) Aaron Stammers.  

The AGM returned Gary Umbagai as Chair and Leah as Vice-Chair. Directors Marilee Liddell, Jodi Humphries, Kirsty Burgu, Rowena Mouda, Cecilia Umbagai and Francis Woolagoodja were also returned. New Directors elected were Shontae Charles and Warren Barunga. They will serve till the AGM 2027. 

If you would like to request a copy of any of the presentations or require more information, please get in touch with CEO Paul Morgan via ea@dambi.org.au or drop into the office in Derby.