the Kimberley’s leading Aboriginal sport & recreation organisation
We drive change and improve lives, utilising culturally safe sport and health promotion programs.
our vision
Healthy, active and strong communities through the power of sport and recreation.
our purpose
To empower people by promoting our values of culture, community and leadership through sport and recreation.
our origin
Garnduwa Amboorny Wirnan was established in 1992 in response to the growing need for a representative Indigenous sporting body in the Kimberley. Our name is derived from languages within the Kullarri, Malarabah, and Wirnan regions. It means ‘big mob of people coming together to do something’.
Our logo depicts the freshwater crocodile and saltwater turtle. These two animals represent the fresh and saltwater people of the Kimberley inland and coast.
Our development programs bring together many Kimberley groups to appreciate culture, celebrate community and connect through a love of sport and recreation.
Our values
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We recognise and embed Aboriginal culture across all of our programming. Aboriginal culture and self-determination are vital to our organisation.
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Community is an intrinsic part of how we work with and learn from Aboriginal people, contributing to the safety and development of our people, and ensuring our communities are healthy and have strong liyan (wellbeing).
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Garnduwa is led by strong Aboriginal people and built for the positive mentorship and development of young Aboriginal leaders. Enhancing the leadership skills and qualities of communities is crucial to the success of our Kimberley youth as future leaders.
Our core business
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the lives of Aboriginal people by providing opportunities to participate in sport and recreation.
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the capacity of Kimberley communities to implement and deliver sustainable and self-sufficient sport and recreation programs.
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a culturally safe environment to support positive social and emotional wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.
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communities to identify resources and engage partners to support them in the delivery of their activities and improve community sporting facilities.
Our focus
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We recognise the power of sports and recreational activities in promoting physical and mental wellbeing, fostering social connections, and enhancing personal development. Through our sports programs, coaching clinics, and community events, we provide opportunities for individuals of all ages to engage in healthy, active lifestyles.
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Our youth development programs are designed to inspire, mentor, and empower young Aboriginal individuals, equipping them with the skills, resilience, and confidence to navigate the challenges of their formative years and pursue their dreams
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We are passionate about supporting lifelong learning and educational opportunities for Aboriginal people. Through partnerships with educational training bodies and local, state and national sporting associations, we aim to break down barriers and promote educational achievement and career advancement. We prioritise employment opportunities for Aboriginal people to work and contribute to the development of sport and recreation within their own communities.
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Recognising the critical importance of a holistic approach to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing, we collaborate with healthcare professionals and community organisations to deliver culturally appropriate health education sessions, raising awareness, and providing support for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
our people
our people
Passionate |dedicated |Knowledgeable
We have been operating in the kimberley for over 30 years.
As a proud Aboriginal organisation we honour our cultural heritage, and the histories and stories of our communities. Our staff are dedicated to a shared vision for Kimberley communities. We are committed to respecting culture and tradition as well as striving for continuous improvement and ensuring we are impacting our communities consistently and positively.
OUR board
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Marmingee Hand
Chairperson
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Darren Mitchelson
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Trish McKay
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Deon Cox
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Sonny Ozies
OUR TEAM
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Michael Albert
CEO
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josepha howard
Deputy CEO
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Amanda Gregory
Program Performance Manager
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Rebecca Harvey
Corporate Services Manager
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Simone Haugh
Kimberley Spirit Program Manager
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Riley Dolman
West Kimberley Area Manager
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Sean Franz
East Kimberley Area Manager
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Bernadette Garlett
Office Coordinator
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Dylan King
Communications Coordinator
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Donny Eldridge
Fitzroy Valley Youth Hub Coordinator
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Huntar Hakim
Kullarri Active Communities Coordinator
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Harry Jones
Kununurra Active Communities Coordinator