Mas National supports First Nations Organisation win gold at Australian Training Awards

Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group, is thrilled to announce that its client, the Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples Prescribed Body Corporate Aboriginal Corporation (GMYPPBC), has won the gold award for Small Employer of the Year at the Australian Training Awards, held on Friday, December 6th.

Based in Yarrabah, the largest discrete Aboriginal community in Australia, GMYPPBC is a charity and not-for-profit organisation. They secured both regional and state titles in their respective categories before advancing to the national stage as one of only three finalists.

Helen Tait, Executive Officer of GMYPPBC, shared that the awards have been a very positive and enriching experience for their team. “We are thrilled to have been recognised as the Gold Recipient and awarded Small Employer of the Year. This recognition is deeply appreciated, and we’re grateful for the support we have received from our partners. Their assistance has been crucial in delivering our training outcomes and empowering our rangers to prioritize their personal development while acquiring new skills to make a positive impact on our community and country,” Ms Tait said.

Since 2013, GMYPPBC has been managing land for the Gunggandji and Mandingalbay Yidinji native title holders. Over the past seven years, the organisation has grown from a single part-time employee to a dedicated team of 15.

Their partnership with Mas National, established in 2021, supports the Reef Assist Ranger Program. This program focuses on fostering a sustainable, environmentally-driven economy for the community and the GMYPPBC Trustee Area.

GMYPPBC’s impact on the local community is significant, especially through their First Nation Ranger program. This program is dedicated to conserving the traditional country of the Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji peoples, located in the World Heritage Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef, and promoting positive and empowering employment and training opportunities.

Mas National also facilitates apprentice sign-ups and provides support services to Tasmanian-based business, Howrah Plumbing, who competed for Small Employer of the Year and placed bronze. They were recognised for their recently introduced apprentice mentoring program, which helps build well-being, confidence and fosters open communication between apprentices and senior plumbers.

Ruth Hundertmark, CEO of Mas National, said “We are incredibly proud of GMYPPBC’s achievement and the positive impact they are making in their community. This gold award is a well-deserved recognition of their dedication and innovative approach to sustainability, training, and employment.”

“We also congratulate Howrah Plumbing on their bronze placement. It’s a pleasure to work with businesses that are committed to supporting apprentices as they build skills for the future,” she added.

~ends~