Local Indigenous-Owned Businesses You Should Know
The local talent in our region never fails to amaze us, but this week we wanted to shine a special light on a handful of Indigenous business owners who share their passion and culture through their work.
Updated 19 January 2022
Written by Nicola Clark
Photograph: Kerry Mona Studio
Dreamtime Games
Dreamtime Games offers cultural experiences to schools, workplaces, and community members. Owner Dusty – a descendant of the Kooma and Murrawari people – takes pride in sharing his lifelong love for both sport and culture through his business. Through Indigenous teamwork and trust-building games and activities, those who join can develop a deep appreciation and understanding of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage.
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RED SAND SISTERS
Proud Murri Kamillaroi Kooma owners and sisters Natasha and Lisa-May opened Red Sand Sisters in early 2022 championing First Nations makers and providing a brick and mortar space for local artisans to share their art and culture. Step inside and you’ll find everything from tote bags and scrunchies, to authentic artworks and hand-painted didgeridoos. You’ll also find native bush foods such as jams and relishes, as well as plant pots, t-shirts, and jewellery lining the shelves.
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Murrupi Enterprises
Daniel Murphy – a proud Djirrbal and Ngadjonji man – produces traditional artefacts including boomerangs and didgeridoos, as well as landscape and animal artworks. All his pieces can be purchased from his online store which also stocks other Queensland artisans’ pieces. Murrupi Enterprises also facilitates talks at local schools.
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Doolamai Designs
Alongside daughter Cara, Domi Doolamai founded his namesake art gallery in 2019. The gallery showcases both contemporary and traditional artwork by the artist, and takes commissions for homes and businesses. You can visit the gallery located on Taylor Street, around the corner from Emerge Café.
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First Nations Telegraph
This online news company is a family-owned business from the minds of Rhonda and Stephen Hagan. Rhonda – a Mandubarra woman and journalist – and Stephen – a Kullilli man and documentary maker – created the daily paper as a means for First Nations people to read the stories that matter. Covers everything from news to community to sport, it’s a fantastic initiative for Indigenous community members to engage with, as well as non-Indigenous people wishing to educate themselves on a variety of topics.
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Indigenous Artisan Markets
These markets are held throughout the year and showcase a variety of jewellery, art, clothing and more – all crafted by talented local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artisans. It’s a great opportunity to share in the culture with live music, food and drinks and many family-friendly activities. Keep an eye out on our calendar for the next markets.
Did we miss your favourite business owner – perhaps your hairdresser, or go-to barista? Let us know, and we’ll create a Part 2!
