NGALAYNGMANG
To talk together - Sharing our story
A word from the Chair- Lisa Mumbin
Dear Jawoyn People and Community,
It’s been busy times for Jawoyn Association and I’ve taken the time to reflect on this unprecedented growthover the past eight years, our journey as the Jawoyn Association has been one of remarkable progress. Since 2016, we've seen a 150% increase in our staffing, reflecting our commitment to building a strong and capable team. We've expanded from managing just seven legal entities to now overseeing fifteen, all focused on supporting and empowering our people. With a 60% increase in turnover, we are committed to achieving the Jawoyn vision of improving economic outcomes for our people.
But our work is far from done. We are determined to see even more Jawoyn people taking up roles within our businesses and contributing to the success of our initiatives. It's not just about growth in numbers—it's about deepening our connection with our Jawoyn community and homelands and ensuring that our people are at the heart of everything we do.
In the coming months, we will be holding meetings across all our communities. These gatherings are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback. We want to hear from you, to understand what matters most to our members as we continue to grow together.
One of our key focuses is the renewal of the Plan of Management for Nitmiluk National Park. This is a significant moment for us all, and we encourage you to think about what you would like to see happening at Nitmiluk. Your voice is essential in shaping the future of this beautiful and sacred place.
It's been fantastic to witness so many of our people reconnecting with country. From trips to Waterhouse, Mann River, and the Jatbula Trail, we've seen our community out on the land, nurturing, preserving, and embracing the vision our elders have held for generations. This connection to country is not only a source of pride but a vital part of who we are as Jawoyn people.
As the Malapparr (Dry) season slowly shifts, I wish you all a safe and prosperous second half of the year. Together, we will continue to grow, thrive, and honour our heritage.
NGALAYNGMANG
To talk together - Sharing our story
Group CEO Report
"Dear Jawoyn Association Community,I am pleased to share the latest developments and achievements within our Association. Our focus remains on sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and creating long-term opportunities for our community."
Jawoyn Contracting – New Home We are planning our new headquarters at 150 Emungalun Rd. This site will host modern offices and sheds, enhancing our operational capacity and supporting growth.
Barunga Festival This year's Barunga Festival was a tremendous success, celebrating our culture, language, art, sports, and music. Such events are vital for preserving our rich heritage.
Visitor Experience Enhancement Program (VEEP)
Upgrades We completed VEEP Round 7 upgrades at the Beagle Hotel, including the refurbishment of four accessible rooms. Funding for VEEP 8 will further refurbish the Beagle Hotel and upgrade visitor facilities for Nitmiluk Helicopter Tours. Thanks to the Northern Territory Government for its support.
Rangers Program Our rangers are establishing a permanent base for the Mangarrayi Rangers and subbases on country, crucial for land protection.
RISE Performance Our RISE venture is now one of the highest-performing entities of its type in Australia, reflecting our collective efforts and dedication.
Jawoyn Group NT ConstructionA new partnership with Kalidonis Group will establish a construction workshop by JAAC, focusing on prefabricated homes and trusses. This project aims to provide sustainable jobs and connect with the $4 billion investment in remote housing by the federal and Territory Governments.
BSWG New Space and GrowthWith support from the Commonwealth and Territory governments, BSWG is expanding to enhance mental health services and accommodation support for juveniles. We are developing a youth services facility on Barnjarn Land to support re-entry into the community.
Leliyn / Edith Falls Rental FacilityWe received approval for a new rental facility at Leliyn / Edith Falls, offering stand-up paddle boards and aqua bikes for visitors.
Nitmiluk Tours Investment
Our $2 million investment in Nitmiluk Tours includes acquiring and upgrading tour boat infrastructure, enhancing the visitor experience.
Local Decision Making (LDM) Agreement 2024-2026
The LDM Agreement focuses on developing cultural enterprises, housing, workforce training, affordable housing, and youth programs, while improving Nitmiluk National Park services and the Jawoyn Rangers program.
"These achievements showcase our community's resilience and commitment to growth. I look forward to continuing our work together for a brighter future."
John Berto, Group CEO, August 2024
NGALAYNGMANG
To talk together - Sharing our story
Jawoyn Rangers and Mangarrayi Rangers
Over the last six months, the Jawoyn Rangers and the Jawoyn Association have been engaged in a series of diverse and impactful activities aimed at cultural preservation, environmental management, and community collaboration. Here is a summary of their activities:
Cultural and Community Activities
Mangarrayi Women and Girls Culture Camp: Held at Red Lily / Ngarmirrngan on Mangarrayi Country, this camp involved 40 participants who engaged in fishing, making bush bread, conducting bird surveys, and learning from Elders. The event was supported by the Jawoyn Association and Mangarrayi men who helped with logistics.
Education and Training: Jawoyn Rangers educated Barunga and Beswick Learning on Country school students about aerial burning techniques, using a helicopter and the Raindance machine. Additionally, Jawoyn ngalmuka (women) rangers participated in the Digital Women Ranger Network program under the Healthy Country AI and digital training initiative.
Tree Planting at Pine Creek: In collaboration with Vic Daly Regional Council, volunteers, Wagiman Rangers, and Batchelor Institute, the Jawoyn Rangers helped plant over 140 trees, promoting environmental stewardship and community involvement.
Environmental and Land Management
Controlled Burns: The Jawoyn Rangers conducted controlled burns around Katherine as part of their contract with NT Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics. This included the removal of fire and pollution hazards such as dumped rubbish and tyres.
Weed Management: Efforts to control Gamba Grass, a highly invasive species, involved spraying across Jawoyn Country. This activity was part of the Rangers' training under the Certificate in Conservation Ecosystem Management with Batchelor Institute.
Rock Art Maintenance: The Rangers visited rock art sites in Nitmiluk National Park for maintenance tasks, such as clearing termite tracks and removing vegetation to protect these cultural treasures from damage.
Savanna Fire Forum Presentation: The Jawoyn Rangers presented at the North Australia Savanna Fire Forum in Darwin, sharing their experiences and receiving positive feedback.
Joint Management Planning: The Jawoyn Rangers worked with Nitmiluk National Park Rangers and Fire Officer Ben Lewis to plan for the upcoming fire season. This involved discussions on safety, prescribed burning techniques, and strategies to protect the ecosystem and cultural sites.
Grants and Support
Northern Territory Aboriginal Ranger Grants Program: The Jawoyn and Mangarrayi Rangers benefited from this program, supporting their efforts towards the Healthy Country Plans. A petition was promoted to ensure continued support for these initiatives.
NGALAYNGMANG
To talk together - Sharing our story
"The
vision
is to
Banatjarl Strongbala Wimuns Grup
support women, children, families, and community by running culturally led programs that incorporate traditional Indigenous healing and wellbeing practices."
The Banatjarl Strongbala Wimun Grup has gained significant strength and operational capacity. It is overseen by Banatjarl Elders who ensure adherence to cultural protocols and governance. This group manages various social services, including the governmentfunded Family Support Service, known as "Country is Medicine." This program addresses family concerns, advocating for children to remain with their families and assisting with reuniting children with their families if they've been removed. Since July 2023, they have positively impacted over 85 families.
The Banatjarl Strongbala Wimun Grup also conducts weekly culture camps during the dry season at Banatjarl homeland, where children and students engage in learning and healing activities. Their initiatives aim to develop youth programs, including culturally supported accommodation for youth facing challenges at home. They are also designing a mentorship program for young people involved in the justice system, which is expected to launch in 2025.
Another key initiative is the "Ngalmuka Healing" program, which empowers women across Jawoyn country by connecting them with a network of strong women to foster change. This program addresses domestic violence and creates culturally informed solutions through communal activities like weaving, which helps maintain connections between Elders and young women.
The NitNit Social Enterprise Gift Shop at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre showcases the talents of the youth, employing 15 young people. They produce bush medicine, jewellery, weaving, t-shirts, art, and ceramics. The shop has seen impressive success, including record sales at the Barunga Festival and increased recognition at interstate conferences.
Additionally, the Banatjarl ladies support the emerging Mungguy Mans Grup, led by Lazarus Manbulloo, which focuses on men's well-being and business development. A men's forum at Barnjarn is planned for August.
Lastly, Jawoyn Social Services, in collaboration with the wimun's and men's groups, are developing a culturally safe Mental Health response. This initiative includes a walk-in, talk-in space at the Woolworth's Central Shopping Centre, set to open in October 2024, providing accessible mental health support for the community.
For more information, the community is invited to visit the Banatjarl office and art studio at 8 Third Street.
To talk together - Sharing our story
Nitmiluk Tours
Nitmiluk Tours is reflecting on a remarkable year filled with accomplishments and progress. The 2023/2024 financial year has been notable for its significant improvements and successful projects.
Property Renovations:
Jatti Pool Bar and Bistro: Reopened on April 6, 2024, after a complete refurbishment, featuring new kitchen equipment and outdoor furniture. Supported by a $100K grant from Austrade, the bar operates daily from 12 pm to 8 pm, offering lunch and dinner, with live music every Thursday from local Katherine musicians.
Jatti Pool Bar Fencing: Replaced old fencing to improve guest safety and the aesthetic of the campground area.
Campground Updates: The campground was divided into two sections, with one section concreted for awnings and caravans, improving the camping experience.
Dinner Cruise: The cruise boat was customized to accommodate 60 guests, expanding the capacity and
Asset Updates:
New Boats: Acquired three new boats—two for Second Gorge and one for First Gorge—to increase tour opportunities and enhance river exploration.
New Canoes: Replaced old canoes with 20 new single canoes and 30 new double canoes to enrich guests' experiences in the gorges.
Cutta Cutta Souvenir Shop: Launched a revamped souvenir shop at Cutta Cutta Cave, offering a variety of items including shirts and shoes. This initiative aims to enhance visitor experience and boost sales.
Indigenous Employment: Focused on hiring indigenous staff, currently employing six staff through the Real Jobs Program. Organised visits for Barunga school students and provided internship training to offer practical hospitality experience.
Cultural Tours: Established a cultural team to run regular land and river-based tours, with three full-time tour guides and a cultural tour coordinator. A new cultural tour area was created behind the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre.
NGALAYNGMANG
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Jawoyn Contracting
Local Decision Making: Enabling Jawoyn housing to be built and managed by Jawoyn, for Jawoyn.
Jawoyn Contracting has been bustling with activity over the past few months, and the momentum is only set to increase. We've been hard at work completing a variety of projects, both large and small, across Beagle, Nitmiluk, and Jawoyn’s Homelands. Our commitment to supporting our communities remains strong, as we continue to undertake essential repairs and maintenance on homes in Beswick, Barunga, and Manyallaluk.
We’ve just reached a significant milestone: It’s been 12 months since we took on the contract to manage all Jawoyn Homelands on Jawoyn Country. This responsibility is one we hold with great pride, and our teams have been tireless in their efforts to meet the needs of our communities.
Our Civil team, in particular, has been exceptionally busy. They’ve been working on various government contracts, including demolishing old buildings and installing water drains in the Barunga Community. In an exciting development, the team has recently secured their first road works contract for a "Gravel Resheet" on the Central Arnhem Highway. The growth of our Civil team has been rapid, and we are eager to see what the future holds as they continue to expand their capabilities.
Our Newbuilds team has also been making great strides. They’ve been actively building new homes and are currently working on four "Room to Breathe" extensions in Manyallaluk. We’re thrilled to announce that the team has just completed their first 2bedroom duplex in Manyallaluk. Following this success, they will be heading to Barunga to begin two new builds and undertake 14 more "Room to Breathe" extensions on existing homes.
As we look ahead, the future of Jawoyn Contracting is filled with promise. We remain dedicated to enhancing the infrastructure and living conditions across our communities, ensuring that Jawoyn Country continues to thrive.
To talk together - Sharing our story
Leliyn Kiosk - Edith Falls
A busy season with new developments on the horizon
The tourist season started off slowly but has been going steady for the last few months. The weekends have been fully booked since Easter, it was quiet during the week, now it is busy every day.
It took a while to open the plunge pool as there was a 3-4 metre saltwater crocodile spotted. Then it disappeared and was never seen again. Hopefully it won’t return.
Our Kiosk has been going well, we have been selling a lot of local art from Werenbun, our local community. They have been producing small rock paintings that sell very fast, small canvas paintings and clap sticks.
Our hamburgers are very popular, and we have been getting a lot of good positive feedback. We will be getting a new kitchen installed after the tourist season is over, which is going to make things a lot easier, while working and cooking in the kitchen.
We are also going to start hiring kayaks and paddleboards at the plunge pool. This will probably start next season.
We get a lot of wonderful comments on how beautiful and green the grounds are, and the campers often say it’s one of the best places to visit in Australia.
Georgie and Wayne Managers - Leliyn Kiosk
NGALAYNGMANG
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Renovations and Upgrades Our two Family rooms and Disability rooms have been fully upgraded. New bathrooms have been fitted out, walls all freshly painted. New bedding and room settings, disability rooms fitted out under disability specifications.
New rooms are looking great and have been booked continuously throughout the holiday season. Family rooms accommodate up to seven people comfortably.
We have just received another grant to have another four rooms upgraded before the end of the year, which is exciting for the Beagle Hotel, to watch it slowly being upgraded. Beagle hotel is looking forward to also upgrading all our walkways and paths with fresh paint.
Restaurant For the first time we have the restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner available at the Beagle. Along with Beagle Catering, the team has been working extremely hard at making this a success venture.
We look forward to improving our services with time. Working on different offers, menus and catering to our community needs and tastes. Moving into the next season we are looking forward to hosting Christmas break ups and Lunches.
Beagle Hotel is working hard to become a name where people can come to eat locally, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner. We are continuing to strive for excellence in our service and quality. Providing Australian and Territory wild caught seafood and other produce and fine foods.
Highlights We had special guests stay with us during Barunga Festival, Yothu Yindi were a pleasure to host at Beagle Hotel for the weekend. It was an honor to have the band come and join Sam, Samuel and Nicole by sitting with us and having breakfast with our family, a memorable morning for all of us, something we will never forget. Hosting Yothu Yindi was a highlight for the Beagle Hotel, having such highly acclaimed Indigenous Musicians appreciate our service and hospitality is a great step forward in the reputation for the Beagle Hotel.
Nicole O'Farrell & Sam Klitogiannis Managers Beagle Hotel
NGALAYNGMANG
To talk together - Sharing our story
Jawoyn Men and Women Walk the Jatbula Trail
Reconnecting Country
Nitmiluk National Park, - July 2024 Jawoyn Association recently supported separate groups of Jawoyn men and women on the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, fostering a profound connection to their heritage and land.
Women’s Walk: Healing and Connection
13 women, including Banatjarl Wimun Elders and younger participants, embarked on the trail. This endeavor, a collaboration with Banatjarl Wimun Grup, Jawoyn Ngalmuka Rangers, National Parks and Wildlife, and volunteers, aimed to support and connect with the country. Chairperson Lisa Mumbin emphasised the journey's significance in supporting each other and connecting with their ancestors. Known as the "Trail Blazers" since their inaugural walk in 2016, the women underscored the importance of these annual walks. Elder Joanne Berry and other participants highlighted the spiritual and healing aspects of the walk, emphasising resilience,
Men’s Walk: Perseverance and Unity
Similarly, 14 Jawoyn men, including Jawoyn Rangers and Traditional Owners, undertook the trail with vehicle support up to 17 Mile Creek. Seven men continued unsupported to Edith Falls, navigating rugged terrain with heavy backpacks and dehydrated meals. Lazarus Manballoo reflected on the journey, emphasizing the vision of connecting men to the country and walking in their Elders' footsteps. This walk, the first in nearly a decade for a Jawoyn group, marked the beginning of renewed efforts to reconnect with ancestral lands. Future ventures are planned to strengthen cultural ties.
Thanks are extended to Nitmiluk Tours, Jawoyn Rangers, NT National Parks and Wildlife, and our volunteers. For more information or to get involved in future walks and programs, please contact us.
