On the 23rd of November, the Foundation was delighted to collaborate with local Traditional Custodians, National Park Rangers, students, teachers, and local business owners to discuss a framework for the employment of First Nations youth to train and work at local businesses in the Watarrka region, including the Discovery Parks Kings Canyon Resort.

All attendees were very grateful to Discovery Parks Kings Canyon for their generous support in providing accommodation, food, and a meeting space for attendees.

The trainee program and employment opportunities are a direct outcome of the annual Lilla Sports and Storytelling Festival, which inspires school children to attend school and appreciate the benefits of an education and getting a job. We look forward to progressing this initiative and keeping you all updated.

Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for friends and family to come together and celebrate, and it’s also an opportunity to make purchases which support Indigenous communities and causes. To help you find meaningful gifts for your loved ones, we’ve curated a selection of Aboriginal-led businesses and initiatives, as well as those that work closely with Aboriginal communities.

Bush Medijina

Bush Medijina is an all-women, Indigenous-owned small business based in the remote Angurugu region in the Northern Territory that creates and sells skincare products made from native bush medicines and botanicals. Their range includes healing balms, hair oils, face products, soaps, and body butters, all crafted using traditional bush medicines like Dumburumba, Mamarra (small-leaved paperbark), Mawilyaburna (liniment tree), Merrika (broad-leaved wattle), and Mamaburra (wild peach tree). With a mission to empower Warnindilyakwa women, Bush Medijina partners with local community development programs to provide training and support for women transitioning into the workforce. You can explore their range and purchase products directly from their website, with gift cards available.

Alpitye Art Studio

For a truly special gift this holiday season, consider purchasing an original artwork by an Aboriginal artist from Central Australia through Alpitye Art Studio. A long-time friend and supporter of the Watarrka Foundation, Alpitye has been championing Indigenous art since 2006. The studio specialises in both traditional and contemporary works from desert regions across Central and Eastern Australia. The studio provides a creative and supportive space for artists, offering materials and opportunities for collaboration. By purchasing a piece from Alpitye, you’ll be directly supporting artists from remote communities, including those from Watarrka, and helping to sustain their artistic practices.

Yarn'n

Yarn'n is an Indigenous-owned company which crafts Australian made, 100% recycled toilet paper and tissues, with each roll and box featuring a beautiful design by collaborating Wiradjuri artist Katrina Graves. Fifty percent of their profits are donated to support First Nations education through Yalari, a nonprofit organisation that provides school scholarships to Indigenous students. While toilet paper might not be the most glamorous gift, it’s certainly one of the most practical. Whether you're gifting a subscription or stocking up for your own home—especially when the whole family comes to visit these holidays—Yarn'n is a practical, eco-friendly choice that gives back.

Magabala Books

Magabala Books is Australia’s leading Indigenous book publisher, proudly Aboriginal-owned and led since 1987. Born from the broader movement towards First Nations' self-determination in the 1980s, Magabala has since published over 250 titles by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors, including renowned writers like Bruce Pascoe, Alexis Wright, Ali Cobby-Eckermann, and Alison Whittaker. Committed to nurturing new and emerging Indigenous writers, illustrators, and storytellers, Magabala continues to support the growth of Indigenous voices in literature. Whether for children or adults, Magabala Books offers a range of meaningful gifts for readers of all ages. As Magabala says, "every Magabala Book purchased is an investment in Indigenous creative, cultural, and economic futures."

Clothing the Gaps

Clothing the Gaps is an Aboriginal-led and controlled clothing brand based in Victoria, dedicated to sparking social change through fashion. Clothing the Gaps "creates merch with a message", seeking to ignite change by uniting Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians through advocacy. All Clothing the Gaps products are ethically and sustainably made, with clothing lines designed for both allies and mob. From graphic tees and sweatpants to beanies, pins, posters, water bottles, blankets, and bags, there's a gift for everyone. And if you’re not sure what to choose, you can always opt for a gift card. 

Ilbijerri Theatre Company

Ilbijerri is Australia’s longest-running First Peoples theatre company, dedicated to creating, presenting, and touring powerful works by Indigenous Australian artists that amplify Indigenous voices and cultures. Based in Victoria, Ilbijerri’s productions tour nationally, sharing stories that reflect the richness of First Nations experiences. The company is guided by Elders in residence and an entirely Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Board of Directors, setting a benchmark for best practice in the arts sector. You can explore their current and upcoming touring productions here—tickets would make a meaningful gift for friends or family who appreciate the performing arts.

Board renewal

The Foundation is currently undertaking a board refresh and renewal, and we look forward to sharing a more detailed update early in the new year. 

To support the Foundation and our projects within the Northern Territory this holiday season, make a donation at www.givenow.com.au/watarrkafoundation