Dianne Russell, Director Born in Cunnamulla Western Queensland, Dianne is another trailblazer who aims high like her fabled father. Di not only sought to educate herself but also started a number of training companies, such as, “Woomera Training and Development” “ a pre-employment course for long-term unemployed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, “JETStream” which worked to supply Jobs Education and Training for Single parents. “Second Chance” courses for ex-prisoners. All courses focussed on the disadvantaged groups in the community, and conducted in Queensland and New South Wales.
Her family are active members of the Native Title Claim group for Goomeroi, NSW and for Kamilleroi in Queensland. As a proud Kamilleroi woman, Di attends all community meetings for the family and regularly shares cultural talks and stories about her famous father at the Brisbane Library “Yarning Circles” sessions, during NAIDOC Week celebrations and with schools.
Len Waters
As Australia’s only known Aboriginal fighter pilot in the Second World War and the only one to date. Warrant Officer Leonard “Len” Waters was a pioneering aviator born in 1924 at “Old Euraba Mission” near Boomi in NSW. After joining the RAAF in 1942, he trained as a flight mechanic before being accepted for pilot training at Uranquinty, NSW. He graduated as a Sergeant Pilot and continued his training in Mildura, where he was posted to 78 Squadron. Between 1943 and 1945, Len flew 95 operational sorties with 78 Squadron, operating from Noemfoor, Morotai and Tarakan. His two favourite sayings in life were “The sky is the limit” and “You are the maker of your own destiny”. These two sayings helped shape his daughter Dianne’s life.Ironically, the plane, that was passed on to him was already named “Black Magic” .On 24th August 1994 Australia Post honoured him by releasing a Stamp, Aerogram and Postcard, which featured Len in his plane “Black Magic”
To be a leading full cycle approach Indigenous owned company, known nationally for leaving a legacy of innovative development solutions that create positive commercial and social outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
“As a Company”, we value decency, integrity and honesty in all interactions with other people. We respect that every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community has its own beliefs, spirituality, land and family traditions . We believe empowerment through participation is the only way to support Indigenous self-determination. We are committed to health, safety and the environment. We understand and align with the importance of core values that drive major projects.
Incrementally building skills, capacity and capabilities through the entire process. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and/or Traditional owners have the ability to replicate the model to freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. The legacy left will encompass and grow Self-determination , Empowerment , Social and economic sustainability , Trained, employable people and businesses Cultural re-vitalisation and maintenance.
GRT Yurruun Murri Mirra has been officially certified by Supply Nation as an Indigenous business that is majority owned, controlled and managed by indigenous personnel.
“Supply Nation’s goal is to connect Australian corporate and government organisations with Indigenous business suppliers who are already achieving success or have the potential to develop into vibrant, vital businesses.”
To find out more about Supply Nation head to www.supplynation.org.au.
