Indigenous cultural heritage management at the forefront for South 32 Worsley Alumina in new partnership

A new partnership for the Gnaala Karla Booja community and South32 Worsley Alumina in aid of Indigenous heritage management has recently been announced.

This arrangement includes an initial 12-month contribution to funding for a heritage officer for 12 months.

Appointed as GKBs heritage officer is Ken Ninyette, a respected Noongar man with considerable cultural and local knowledge.

He will take on a range of duties including facilitating the engagement between GKB and South32 Worsley Alumina, helping with heritage surveys and cultural assessments across the region, and identifying opportunities for economic growth within the GKB community.

The landmark industry collaboration agreement aims to provide long-term benefits for heritage and the community such as protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage.

GKB chair John Penny said the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage was a priority and was important to the people of the Gnaala Karla Booja region.

“We are delighted to be working with South32 Worsley Alumina as this important union will help us build the capacity to assist our community.”

GKB CEO Bruce Jorgensen commended the South32 Worsley Alumina team for their professionalism and cultural sensitivity.

“This landmark agreement between the Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation and South32 Worsley Alumina signals the beginning of a valuable relationship,” he said.

South32 Worsley Alumina vice-president operations Erwin Schaufler said the company was proud to announce the partnership with Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation.

“This agreement demonstrates our commitment to working alongside traditional owners to protect cultural values and realise the mutual benefits for both the community and Noongar culture,” he said.

“Contributing to this funding agreement will not only strengthen GKB Corporation’s capabilities but also assist South32 Worsley Alumina in fulfilling our heritage and survey requirements.

“This partnership reflects our dedication to fostering positive traditional owner relationships and supporting the shared goals of the Noongar community in the South West.”