Friday 27 February was a big day for Aboriginal business and culture in the Latrobe Valley. Partnership Committee members headed to Sale for the Deadly in Gippsland Business Day — an event celebrating First Nations enterprise, employment, and community pride.
Hosted in a large hall, the event was packed from wall to wall. One side featured support organisations like the Indigenous Business Australia, which helps community members access business loans and start-ups, and Steps for the Future, an Indigenous employment program. GippsTAFE was also there, offering guidance on everything from resumés to career pathways — great news for young people in the region thinking about their futures.
The middle of the hall was buzzing with blak businesses selling art, handcrafted jewellery, clothing, native plants, and even possum skin products and intricately carved emu eggs. The creativity on display was extraordinary.
Alice Ann took to the stage and delivered powerful words about community strength and culture. Didge players performed throughout the day, filling the room with music. Food trucks and coffee vans kept everyone fed and energised.
Partnership Committee members spent the day connecting with each group, networking, and gathering ideas for the upcoming Partnership. “A massive day we thoroughly enjoyed!” they wrote. It was a proud reminder of the talent, resilience, and vision within Gippsland’s First Nations community.
27 February 2025 | Sale, Victoria