KLC Media Release – March 4, 2011
Economic independence for Aboriginal people goal of new Foundation
The Kimberley Land Council today launched the Ambooriny Burru Foundation – a charitable venture to facilitate Kimberley Aboriginal people’s engagement in the expanding regional economy.
The KLC, in establishing this Foundation, is fulfilling the long-term vision of Kimberley Aboriginal people to get control of their future through increased opportunities and economic independence.
“This initiative is extremely important to the KLC as it gives us a chance to fulfil the wishes and vision of Traditional Owners,” Kimberley Land Council Co- Chairs Tom Birch and Frank Davey said.
“The KLC is proud of the work it has done to get back country, look after country and get control of our futures and we will continue to do that. Now we are taking the next step forward, so we can provide our children and grandchildren with the same opportunities as all other Australians.
“This is about creating a prosperous future for our people.’’
The KLC has also established KRED Enterprises which will seek out and develop business and job opportunities for Kimberley Aboriginal people, on behalf of the Foundation.”
The KLC Board has appointed Wayne Bergmann to lead these new ventures and is pleased to announce he has accepted the position as CEO of KRED Enterprises.
Mr Bergmann will leave his role as CEO of the Kimberley Land Council, and start in this new role immediately. Nolan Hunter will hold the position of Acting CEO of the KLC, while a formal recruitment process for the CEO position is undertaken.
“I am very excited to be starting in this new role, as it provides me with another avenue to continue working with, and for Aboriginal people in the Kimberley,’’ Wayne Bergmann, incoming CEO of KRED Enterprises, said.
“This is a chance for Aboriginal people to become real participants in the modern economy. The Foundation will help to provide Traditional Owners with training, real jobs and business opportunities.
“With the whole of Australia looking to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, KRED Enterprises provides us with the opportunity for economic independence, meaning our people will no longer have to rely on Government and business hand-outs.
“This is about Kimberley Aboriginal people doing something for ourselves. The successes we have had in the Kimberley have always come from our people working together and that will not change.
“Ambooriny Burru means “people’s land’’ and the Foundation belongs to all Kimberley Aboriginal people.
“The profits KRED Enterprises generates will be channelled into the Foundation and used for purposes that support our law and culture, land management and economic development. We want to improve the lives of Aboriginal people and create strong communities in the Kimberley.’’
The establishment of these ventures does not change the role or function of the KLC. The KLC will continue to carry out its core responsibilities in the areas of native title, land and sea management and agreements.
