Mineral Resources (MinRes) employees recently attended a cultural immersion program held at the Yandeyarra community on Kriyarra Country.
The community sits nearby to MinRes’ Wodgina lithium operation, 140km south of Port Hedland in WA.
The employees stayed with the community for a week, sharing stories and meals.
“I was touched by the hospitality we were shown, and the simplicity of spending time by the river – a place that holds so many good memories for the families living at Yandeyarra – and getting to know my colleagues and sharing our varied experiences,” MinRes senior heritage advisor Mel Stuart said.
“It was an honour and pleasure to sit around a campfire cooking damper with Margie Stewart, listening to Nana Biddy sing songs of the bush and witness a new generation of Kariyarra leaders continue their cultural traditions and protecting Country.”
MinRes is dedicated to strengthening its commitment to reconciliation and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
The team works with Kariyarra Traditional Owners regularly to help protect their culture and ensure MinRes operations remain compliant.
“MinRes acknowledges and respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their connection to the land on which we live and work,” the company said.
“We recognise Traditional Owners associated with lands within our operating areas and their contribution to successful social, community and project outcomes.
“MinRes is committed to increasing our Indigenous participation and proudly work to support ongoing engagement with Indigenous people across a range of opportunities including employment, training, land use agreements, business development, partnership and cultural awareness.”