Melbourne Innovation Centre acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land throughout Victoria where we live, work and play. We pay our respect to their cultures and Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge their ancient wisdom and resilience, and recognise the importance of cultural diversity in igniting innovation.
Join us in celebrating NAIDOC Week from 2 to 9 July, as we shine a spotlight on Indigenous-owned businesses within Melbourne Innovation Centre's community, part of the Digital Solutions Program.
Yilam
Yilam, founded by mother and daughter duo Joanne and Kaley has entered Australia's camping industry, offering a range of ethically and sustainably sourced camping equipment and bespoke on Country experiences for Mob and socially conscious campers. The word 'Yilam' is from the language of the Taungurung Nation - the first peoples of the rivers and the mountains in the highlands of Victoria. Pronounced 'yil-um' this word directly translates to 'camp'. However for our people the meaning is much deeper than that. Yilam means 'home' which of course, speaks to our brand ethos. We want to teach people to connect with and value nature - to treat Country as if it were their home - because ultimately it is.
Ngarga Warendj
Ngarga Warendj (Dancing Wombat), offers Aboriginal gifts and products that are not only handmade, but also produced through ethical licensing agreements. Mick shares the unique stories and Art of his Taungwurrung Aboriginal culture, while also creating innovative ways to produce Indigenous art.
Learn more about Ngarga Warendj here!
Gerrbik
Gerrbik Laundry Services, formally known as Complete Workwear Services, is Australia’s first Indigenous owned and operated Commercial Laundry/Dry-Cleaner operating since 1979 by the Stewart family. Gerrbik translates to "Family" in our tradition Taungurung language, our staff and customers become a part of our family.
Gerrbik takes pride in providing the highest quality of services at the most competitive prices in both linens and uniforms.
Learn more about Gerrbik here!
Wunyun
Peta Hudson created Wunyun to share her unique cultural knowledge and practices to help others. Wunyun uses native botanicals, including foraging for bush medicine, to create non-toxicplant-based medicinal products. Peta also draws on her experience and massage therapy qualifications to offer trauma-informed therapeutic practices for balance and soul-level healing.
Lee Couch
Lee Couch is a Wellbeing Facilitator and Educator with over 15 years of experience in Health and Wellness. She is an Aboriginal woman from the Gamilaroi Tribe NSW, Australia, now living on the Traditional Lands of Taungurung / Dhudhuroa Country in the Alpine Shire, Victoria. Lee is dedicated to her creation in helping in the healing of her people and all peoples. The rhythm of her work is to facilitate love, inspire change and healing across our generations. She offer a range of Health and Culture Retreats that showcase the talents of Indigenous people.
Learn more about Lee Couch here!
For more information on how to celebrate, head to the NAIDOC week website. To learn about and support more Indigenous-owned businesses, visit TradingBlak or the Supply Nation business directory.