National Reconciliation Week

Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) is highlighting the importance of its strong relationships with local Indigenous communities, this National Reconciliation Week.

Employees celebrated cultures, histories and achievements of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Australian South Sea Islander communities with a morning tea held across three GPC sites this week.

This year’s theme is ‘More than a Word’ with the event marking 21 years of Reconciliation Australia and almost three decades of Australia’s formal reconciliation process.

Executive General Manager Rowen Winsor said it was humbling to know that GPC is one of the many Queensland organisations making real change in reconciliation.

“Throughout our 107‐year journey, GPC has become an integral part of its communities, working alongside the Byellee, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang and Taribelang Bunda peoples,” Ms Winsor said.

“In the last decade we have achieved so much, from launching our successful Australian‐first Cross Industry Operations Traineeship and welcoming the fourth group on board this year to supporting future leaders with our bursary program.

“We have even named our assets with traditional language throughout our community.

“Our vision for reconciliation is to ensure equality, equity and unity, where culture and heritage is recognised, respected and celebrated as a part of our shared national identity,” she said.

In March, GPC unveiled a large mural commissioned by two Indigenous artists at its East Shores parklands.

GPC has lead initiatives such as a Reconciliation Action Plan, Indigenous Land Use Agreement, Future Directions Community Liaison Group, Cross Industry Operations Traineeship and Talent Today Talent Tomorrow programs to help guide positive change in the community.