Much is being achieved thanks to a new focus of the council board and the drive of new chief executive officer and Bodalla resident Ben Stainer, who took over four months ago. The accomplishments are many and varied, but perhaps most importantly the organisation is now providing training and employment, as well as a sense of pride, for the indigenous community.

Most visible is the sprucing up of the Bodalla land council building on the Princes Highway that has new fixtures inside and new paint job complete with mural of “Yuin man” on the outside. Also at the building is a new dining area complete with a pizza and tandoori oven donated by local Bodalla potter, artist and chef Cameron Williams. Fellow Bodalla local Tony Spagony donated building equipment.

“We also have plans to build a veggie garden complete with green house and chook run,” Mr Stainer said.

Qualified plumber and tradesman Damien Rotumah has set up a business called South Coast Indigenous Maintenance and through Uniting Care Narooma is taking bookings for general property maintenance, lawn mowing and firewood delivery.

“We’re keen to hear from anyone in the area who needs work done and this is way of supporting indigenous employment,” Mr Stainer said.

Wade Mongta, Chris Kenny and other young men are volunteering with an eye to securing future employment. The council meanwhile is fixing up an older vehicle through the “Restore” youth program and also has functioning, bright red utility complete with Bodalla LALC logos that can be used for everyday business and the maintenance program.

The council has also attended meetings to do with indigenous fishing rights including one at Narooma Golf Club a couple of weeks ago. And it also plans to hold a traditional training camp over the Christmas break for the community’s young people.

“We’re also looking volunteers and supporters from Koori and non Koori community who want to get involved,” he said.