Indigenous Business Month Celebration

When

  • Friday, 24 October 2025 | 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM

Rockhampton Jockey Club

Indigenous-Business-Month-Tile.jpg

People are sitting at tables around a brick room listening to a presenter speaking on a stage

You’re invited to join Advance Rockhampton and the Queensland Indigenous Business Network (QIBN) for the annual Indigenous Business Month Celebration - recognising the strength, innovation and contributions of Indigenous businesses in the Rockhampton Region.

Encompassing Darumbal, Gaangalu and Barada Kabalbara Yetimarala voices, you’ll hear from visionary Indigenous business leaders, establish meaningful connections and witness the economic, social and cultural contributions made by Indigenous businesses.

Event Agenda

  • Darumbal - Welcome to Country
  • Mayor Tony Williams - Welcome address
  • QIBN Co-Chair Julie-ann Lambourne - Strategic priorities, economic ecosystems, current priorities, procurement and more
  • National Indigenous Australians Agency Assistant Director of Engagement, Daniel Caldwell - Empowering entrepreneurship, grants and funding opportunities, Closing the Gap through economic development
  • Local Business Leaders and  Panel Discussion
  • Annual Awards

To ensure maximum benefit, participation is by expression of interest at this time. 

Submit an E.O.I to attend

Event Artwork created by Lelarnie Hatfield

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This artwork design features a central circle surrounded by people, symbolising the strength and unity of our community. At the heart of the circle is a fire, with hands reaching out, representing the collaborative spirit of our mob as we work together for the benefit of all.

The blue water and home symbols depict the journeys of people across Central Queensland, highlighting how local businesses contribute positively to community growth. These waters represent and acknowledge the life that flows through Barada Kabalbara Yetimarala (BKY) Country, continuing through Gaangalu Country and down to Tunuba on Darumbal Nunthi (country). This journey reflects the deep connection between traditional homelands and community, showing how the contributions of each nation flow together, supporting unity and shared prosperity.

This collective effort leads to the vibrant green leaves, which bear fruit, signifying the rewards of our hard work and collaboration.

The two mountains within the design represent significant landscapes from the Gaangalu and Darumbal nations. Their presence acknowledges that we stand between them today, honouring place, as we come together to celebrate this Indigenous Business Month event.

Surrounding the artwork, the yellow crosshatching signifies our deep connection to Country, reflecting the shared history of the Rockhampton Regional Council, Advance Rockhampton, and both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Together, we nurture our country, encourage growth, and support one another through business and community care.


Award Nominations

Know an Indigenous business or organisation exhibiting excellence or going above and beyond in our community? Nominate a local Indigenous-led business or organisation for recognition in our annual awards.

Make a nomination

What you need to know

  • Nominations should be made by email, with the category clearly listed
  • Where known, please provided a contact name and information for the nominee
  • Nominations close midday Friday 10th October
  • No self-nominations will be accepted
  • One nomination per person

Categories and Selection Criteria

Cultural Community Impact Award

Overview

Recognises an Indigenous business or Community Organisation making a significant positive impact on their community through cultural leadership, social initiatives, or community empowerment.

Criteria

  • Demonstrates strong cultural values and practices in business operations OR
  • Has delivered measurable benefits to Indigenous communities (e.g. employment, education, health, cultural preservation) OR
  • Shows leadership in community engagement and empowerment OR
  • Promotes intergenerational knowledge sharing or cultural continuity OR
  • Evidence of sustained impact or long-term commitment to community wellbeing.

Make a nomination

Integration Collaboration Award

Overview

Celebrates partnerships that foster meaningful collaboration between Indigenous businesses and other sectors, organisations, or communities.

Criteria

  • Demonstrates successful collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous entities. OR
  • Promotes mutual respect, shared decision-making, and cultural understanding. OR
  • Leads to tangible outcomes such as joint ventures, co-designed projects, or inclusive procurement. OR
  • Builds capacity within Indigenous businesses or communities. OR
  • Sets a precedent or model for future partnerships.

Make a nomination

Rising Star Award

Overview

Recognises an emerging Indigenous entrepreneur or business showing exceptional promise, innovation, and leadership in their early stages.

Criteria

  • Business is in early growth phase (e.g. within first 5 years of operation). OR
  • Demonstrates innovation, creativity, or unique value proposition. OR
  • Shows strong potential for scalability or long-term success. OR
  • Actively engages with community or cultural values. OR
  • Has achieved notable milestones or recognition in a short time.

Make a nomination

 

Location

Rockhampton Jockey Club, Reaney Street, Rockhampton, 4700, View Map

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