GEMCO partners with Bush Medijina

Our GEMCO operation has partnered with a local Indigenous business to help transform the lives of local women, children and families on Groote Eylandt.

Established three years ago, Bush Medijina was born from the desire of Warningakalina elders to address the need to build culture and capability across the archipelago and strengthen values, knowledge, culture and community wellbeing.

Using traditional recipes passed down through the generations, the company produces hand-made skin and hair care products as well as balms, soaps and other gifts using locally harvested produce.

GEMCO’s support will now enable the company to showcase its business beyond Groote Eylandt archipelago and help it to achieve better outcomes in education, wellbeing, values and culture.

Jo-Anne Scarini, GEMCO Vice President Operations, said she was looking forward to establishing a mutually beneficial partnership. She added: “It was a natural fit for GEMCO to partner with the inspiring women from Bush Medijina to help to realise their vision.”

Governed by an all-female board, 80 per cent of the Bush Medjina team are Indigenous. Throughout the year, the social enterprise also provides regular governance, leadership and women’s advocacy opportunities for its team as well as the wider community.

Gayangwa Lalara OAM, Bush Medijina Deputy Chair, said: “We want to grow our business from a small seed to a giant tree, so it can stay strong, just like our culture.”