Gunawuna Jungai is taking the lead in a significant step towards achieving self-governance for the people of Doomadgee.

In a major milestone towards achieving the goals of the Closing the Gap initiative, the Queensland Government and coalition of peak bodies have nominated Doomadgee Community as the pioneering site for place-based partnerships, with Gunawuna Jungai as the endorsed body.

The community-controlled organisation Gunawuna Jungai represents all family groups within the Doomadgee Community and is at the forefront for cultural leaders to talk for their people, identify their needs and aspirations, and take ownership of decision-making in Community while fostering a powerful, flourishing relationship between governments and service providers. The organisation has also been endorsed by the Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council and is poised to play a significant and positive role in Doomadgee’s future.

Barry Walden, Chairman of Gunawuna Jungai and a Gangalidda Traditional Owner, says the new model is a step in the right direction.

“As the first Queensland site for placed based partnerships under Closing the Gap, we are crying out to the government to support us in developing our autonomy and being genuine about ‘community led’,” he said.

“The challenges with system are just one example where the square peg of government systems forces its way into the round hole of our culture.

“There will always be a gap to be closed.”

Chief Executive Office Kieran Smith said being a part of an organisation that contributes to creating a thriving, independent, sustainable, and culturally strong community in Doomadgee for future generations is phenomenal.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to realise the vision and the aspirations of a remote community, and that’s what’s exciting, it’s genuinely ‘cutting edge’ being driven by the cultural structure of the Community,” CEO Mr Smith said.

“Only six sites across Australia have been chosen, and we worked hard to ensure Doomadgee was chosen as the Queensland site and to lead the local Community company that is the endorsed body under Closing the Gap is a unique opportunity.”