The Best of Business Awards, an annual event hosted by Telstra, aims to recognise and celebrate the diversity and successes of Australia's up and coming changemakers.
This year's event, held over two days in Melbourne Park, turned out to be more than Dja Dja Wurrung Group CEO Rodney Carter had ever dreamed of.
Up against 22,000 other nominees, a Dja Dja Wurrung business founded by 15 people on a verandah with a dream, has taken home the top prize.
DJAARA Team posing with their Business of the Year and Indigenous Excellence awards. Credit: MIKE TARR
DJAARA, which means 'people' in Dja Dja Wurrung language, has been on a decades long mission to get the Traditional practices of their people recognised within western sciences.
The business is split into three enterprises that cover resource management, arts and food.
Established in 2004 and previously recognised by the United Nations, Amanda Hutton - a Telstra Group Executive, said "our judges recognised the clear merits and transformative impact of DJAARA as a trailblazer".
With a talent for balancing cultural and commercial success, evidenced by ventures such as their ownership and cultivation of the southern hemisphere's biggest yabby farm, the team at DJAARA have a century long vision to sustain the continued growth of both their Country and people.
Carter said it was a great honour for the work, effort and achievements from his team ensuring that Traditional Owners maintain their seat at the decision-making tables for their resources and futures to be recognised and given the chance to shine and reflect.
Ikuntji Artists - Accelerating Women Award
With a dedication to supporting local Anangu art and culture - both business have an integral role to play in the inter-generational stories of their people.
Rodney has one piece of advice for young mob out there looking to follow the steps of his team.
"I think if you're a young entreprenuer - you've gotta dream, you gotta be realistic, gotta be pratical. It's got to be achievable, but, it's good to have a dream, good for your soul."
