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EVENT Speakers
​​Welcome to Country
The Summit 2025 is deeply honoured to be welcomed on Country by Uncle James Wilson-Miller, Senior Elder of the Gringai Clan of the Wonnarua Nation in the Hunter River Valley, NSW. Throughout The Summit, Uncle James will deliver the Welcome to Country, grounding the event in cultural respect, truth-telling and the enduring wisdom of the Wonnarua people.
Uncle James Wilson-Miller
​A respected cultural leader, educator, and historian, Uncle James has dedicated his life to educating others, researching Indigenous history, and representing his people across local, state, and national platforms. As the former Curator of Koori History, Culture and Design at the Powerhouse Museum, and author of the best-selling book Koori: A Will To Win, his contributions have left a lasting legacy in the preservation and celebration of Indigenous knowledge and identity.
Buyer & Indigenous Supplier Masterclasses
Start Day 1 of The Summit 2025 with free, exclusive masterclasses designed to empower both Indigenous businesses and buying organisations. Running simultaneously, the Tender Ready Masterclass will support Indigenous suppliers to sharpen their tendering skills, while the Indigenous Engagement Masterclass will equip buyers with strategies for stronger, more inclusive participation. Spots are limited and available only to ticket holders.
Luke McIlroy-Ranga
Co- Facilitator for Buyers Masterclass
Social & Economic Inclusion Strategist | Co-Founder & Director, Tika EQ
Luke McIlroy Ranga is Director of Tika EQ, an Indigenous-led consultancy embedding cultural intelligence into organisational change. With expertise in leadership development, strategy, and community engagement, he has spent more than a decade partnering with government, corporates, and industry to design measurable reconciliation strategies. Working alongside fellow directors such as Liam Harte, Luke drives equity-focused initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for First Nations peoples. His leadership blends cultural knowledge with systemic reform, ensuring reconciliation commitments result in lasting outcomes. Luke is widely respected for his ability to help organisations build capacity, strengthen inclusion, and implement culturally grounded change.
Deb Barwick
Co- Facilitator for Buyers Masterclass
Founder & CEO, NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce | Founder and CEO, Winya Indigenous Furniture
​Deb Barwick is a proud Gomeroi woman, Founder and CEO of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (NSWICC), and Chairperson of Winya Indigenous Furniture. She has built NSWICC into the peak body for over 500 Aboriginal businesses, driving procurement reform, workforce development, and supplier diversity. Internationally recognised for advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Deb advises governments, corporates, and global organisations on embedding Indigenous participation in supply chains. Her vision is for Aboriginal enterprises to be positioned as contributors and beneficiaries of the economy, creating intergenerational wealth and opportunity. Deb remains a national leader in Indigenous business and economic empowerment.
Dr Shivendra Kumar
Facilitator for Indigenous Business Supplier Masterclass
Managing Director & Principal Consultant, Shivendra & Co
Dr. Shivendra Kumar is Managing Director of Shivendra & Co., a specialist consultancy serving infrastructure, utilities, renewables, and manufacturing. With over 20 years of strategic consulting experience, he partners with organisations to deliver transformational strategies, operational excellence, and sustainable growth. Formerly with Siemens and Downer, he brings deep sector expertise and leadership capability. He holds a PhD from Griffith University and serves in advisory roles including Chair of the Western Sydney Procurement Steering Committee. A strong advocate of inclusive economic development, Dr. Kumar maintains strategic partnerships with government and Indigenous organisations, reflecting his commitment to equity and community impact.
Business Tradeshow & Networking Event
Step into a dynamic space where ideas meet opportunity. The Business Tradeshow & Networking Event is your chance to connect directly with innovators, industry leaders, and changemakers from across New South Wales and beyond. Explore exhibitor showcases, discover groundbreaking products and services, and forge valuable partnerships in an energetic, collaborative environment. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, spark new collaborations, or uncover fresh market insights, this event is designed to open doors and accelerate growth.
Greg Green
Opening & Closing of the Trade Show
Director, NSWICC; Owner, DCL Engineering Pty Ltd
​Greg Green is Director of DCL Engineering, a leading provider of heavy engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance solutions. With decades of industry experience, Greg has positioned DCL as a trusted partner to mining, energy, and infrastructure projects. As a Director of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, Greg advocates for stronger Aboriginal participation across supply chains and industry. He is committed to mentoring Indigenous businesses and building opportunities for Aboriginal employment within the engineering sector. Greg’s leadership combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to social impact, sustainability, and economic inclusion for Aboriginal communities in NSW and beyond.
Sharnee Fenwick
Live Entertainment
​Adding a soulful soundtrack to the evening, Sharnee Fenwick will bring her powerful voice and heartfelt storytelling to the Networking Event. An award-winning Indigenous country music artist, Sharnee’s blend of rich vocals and genuine connection will create the perfect atmosphere for meaningful conversations and new connections. Her performance promises to be both uplifting and unforgettable, celebrating culture and community through music.
Knowledge Forum
The Knowledge Forum at The Summit 2025 features a dynamic lineup of speakers who are driving impact across business, culture, policy, and community in the Indigenous business sector. From industry leaders and entrepreneurs to innovators and changemakers, these voices bring a wealth of experience and insight. Together, they will explore the opportunities, challenges and bold ideas shaping the future of Indigenous business — offering practical strategies, inspiring stories, and thought-provoking discussion designed to spark action and collaboration.
Susan Moylan-Coombes
Knowledge Forum MC & Opening Keynote
Founder, Gaimaragal Group | Director, NSWICC
Susan Moylan-Coombs, a Gurindji Woolwonga woman, is a respected leader, advocate, and member of the Stolen Generations. With senior roles at ABC’s Indigenous Programs Unit and NITV, she has championed First Nations storytelling nationally. As Founder of the Gaimaragal Group, Susan leads cultural immersion, social planning, and reconciliation initiatives to create systemic change. She serves on boards including the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, PTSD Australia New Zealand, and Gunyadu First Nations Women’s Aboriginal Corporation. Her work empowers Elders, youth, and communities to connect through cultural integrity. Susan is also Chair of the Gai-mariagal Festival, fostering Indigenous voices for over two decades.
Duane Keighran
Moderator: Indigenous Business Showcase 1
Managing Director, Keighran Legal + Advisory | Director, NSWICC
Duane Keighran is the Managing Director of Keighran Legal + Advisory, a specialist commercial law firm serving the real estate, hotels, and construction industries in Australia and internationally. A proud Gomeroi man, Duane is also a Director of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce and Non-Executive Director of Birribee Housing, advancing social and affordable housing for Aboriginal communities. Recognised as a finalist for Real Estate Partner of the Year and Indigenous Leader of the Year (2024, 2025), his expertise is consistently acknowledged in leading legal directories. At The Summit 2025, Duane shares insights on law, leadership, and Indigenous enterprise.
Rachelle Towart OAM
Indigenous Business Showcase 1
Pipeline Talent & Dreamjobz
Rachelle Towart OAM is recognised nationally in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, governance, and education and has elevated the importance of Indigenous leadership and governance capacity to the national stage. As a former CEO of the Australian Indigenous Leadership Centre, Rachelle has trained thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders. She has been recognised with a wide range of awards including the prestigious Westpac Community CEO of the Year (2014) and the Australian Financial Review's Australian Women of Influence.
In 2016, Rachelle established Pipeline Talent to champion emerging Indigenous leaders by matching highly qualified Indigenous candidates with employers and offering support every step of the way.
In 2025, Dreamjobz has successfully launched and is on a mission is to provide a dedicated job board platform that ensures that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent is recognised, valued, and given the opportunity to thrive in every sector.
Rachelle is passionate about supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to reach their leadership potential and committed to changing Australia’s employment landscape and drive positive cultural impacts across Australia’s workforce.
Brendan Thomas
Indigenous Business Showcase 1
NGNU
Brendan Thomas is a proud Dharug man and accomplished property executive with over 20 years’ experience across Australia’s leading organisations. As Founder and Managing Director of NGNU, a Project Management and Development Advisory firm, he leads the delivery of high-quality outcomes across the property sector. Alongside its core business, NGNU is deeply committed to its Cadet Program, creating employment pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Brendan has served on the CBA Indigenous Advisory Panel and RAP Advisory team and currently sits on the Boards of Western Sydney University, Community Resources, Dharug Strategic Management Group, and the Property Council of Australia’s Commercial Committee.
Ryan Jones
Indigenous Business Showcase 1
Pacific Welding Australia
Ryan Jones is a Director of Pacific Welding Australia (PWA), a Newcastle-based specialist in project welding, mechanical services and skilled labour hire across Australia. Under Ryan and Indigenous business owner Grant Davies’s leadership, PWA is licensed in Steel Mains / MSCL and delivers services across sectors including energy, water infrastructure, oil, gas, hydrogen, petrochemical, heavy manufacturing, and industrial asset maintenance. The company is known for its dedication to high quality workmanship and people, delivering pipeline, facility, structural, vessel and shutdown/turnaround support projects nationwide. With a reputation built on reliability and technical excellence, Ryan leads with integrity, vision and operational rigour.
Tyson Hubbard
Indigenous Business Showcase 1
Allpro Plumbing
Tyson Hubbard is Director of Allpro Plumbing, a growing Indigenous-owned company servicing civil, commercial, and residential projects. With a reputation for quality service and technical excellence, Tyson has built Allpro into a trusted contractor on major infrastructure projects. Beyond business success, he is dedicated to mentoring Aboriginal apprentices and creating employment pathways that strengthen the Indigenous trades workforce. Tyson’s vision is to expand opportunities for Aboriginal businesses and workers in construction, ensuring Indigenous enterprise is at the forefront of the sector’s growth. His leadership highlights the role of entrepreneurship in driving sustainable community outcomes.
Narelle Anderson
Moderator: Panel Session 1
Owner, Envirobank | Deputy Chairperson, NSWICC
Narelle Anderson is a proud Aboriginal entrepreneur, Deputy Chair of the NSWICC, and Founder of Envirobank Recycling, Australia’s largest Indigenous-owned recycling company. Through Envirobank, she has pioneered innovative solutions to reduce waste and increase recycling rates while creating economic opportunities for Aboriginal communities. Nationally recognised as a leader in the circular economy, Narelle advocates for sustainable business growth and Indigenous participation across industries. Her dual role with the NSWICC positions her at the forefront of policy reform and Indigenous business advocacy. Narelle’s vision is to ensure Aboriginal businesses thrive in sustainability, innovation, and mainstream markets across Australia.
Liam Harte
Panel Session 1
Co-Founder and Director, Tika EQ | Director, NSWICC
Liam Harte, a proud Dunghutti man, is Co-Founder and Director of Tika EQ, an advisory firm placing First Nations perspectives at the centre of organisational change. He works with government, corporates, and institutions to embed cultural intelligence, equity, and reconciliation in policy and practice. With expertise in leadership development, stakeholder engagement, and systemic reform, Liam ensures that reconciliation commitments translate into tangible results. He partners closely with communities to strengthen cultural safety and representation, building trust and inclusion across sectors. Liam is a nationally recognised leader driving Indigenous business, cultural empowerment, and transformative change.
Ben Linschoten
Panel Session 1
Procurement Manager, ACEREZ
Ben Linchoten is the Procurement Manager for ACEREZ, the joint venture appointed to deliver the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission network in New South Wales. In his role, Ben oversees sourcing, supply chain management and vendor engagement across major infrastructure, energy, and grid development projects. He ensures optimal value, compliance and timely delivery of critical components and labour packages. With deep expertise in procurement strategy, contract negotiation, and stakeholder coordination, Ben plays a key role in supporting ACEREZ’s mission to build a reliable, sustainable energy transmission network.
Kath Hawkins
Panel Session 1
Director, Stakeholder and Permitting, Hydrostor
Kath Hawkins is Country Manager for Hydrostor, a global leader in Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES). With deep expertise in renewables and project delivery, Kath leads Hydrostor’s work in Australia to deliver long-duration energy storage projects critical to the clean energy transition. She works closely with governments, industry and communities to develop storage solutions that support grid reliability, decarbonisation and local jobs. Passionate about collaboration, Kath champions engagement with Aboriginal businesses and communities to ensure benefits flow through supply chains. At The Summit 2025, she will discuss renewable energy projects and the role of storage in building sustainable futures.
Neville Bereyne
Panel Session 1
Manager, Program Delivery – Social Procurement & Workforce Development and Regional Development, EnergyCo NSW
Neville Bereyne is a dedicated workforce development leader with extensive experience delivering large-scale initiatives across major infrastructure projects, including Sydney Metro. In his role at EnergyCo NSW, he drives social procurement and workforce strategies that create diverse, inclusive, and sustainable employment pathways within the energy and renewables sectors.
Passionate about connecting communities to opportunity, Neville brings strong expertise in stakeholder engagement, policy implementation, and industry collaboration. His insights help shape how government and industry can work together to maximise Aboriginal participation and regional benefits throughout NSW’s energy transition.
Victor Dominello
Keynote Conversation
CEO, Future Government Institute | Co-Founder, ServiceGen
Victor Dominello is CEO of the Future Government Institute and Co-Founder of ServiceGen. A globally recognised leader in digital transformation, he served 12 years as a NSW Cabinet Minister, becoming the world’s first Minister for Customer Service and Digital. He pioneered Service NSW, the Digital Restart Fund, and Australia’s first fully digital driver’s licence. Since leaving politics, Victor has advanced governance innovation through ServiceGen and academia, holding senior advisory roles with the Tony Blair Institute and UNSW. In 2025, he was named to Okta Ventures’ Identity 25, with his image featured on the Nasdaq Tower in New York, underscoring his global impact.
Rita Arrigo
Keynote Presentation
Strategic Engagement Manager, National AI Centre | renowned digital & AI strategist
Rita Arrigo is Strategic Engagement Manager at the National AI Centre, where she drives Australia’s global AI adoption and industry collaboration. With expertise in digital and AI strategy, she has delivered thought leadership in generative AI, cybersecurity, and climate technology. A former Chief Digital Advisor at Microsoft, Rita is a renowned AI strategist recognised for cultivating innovation across emerging technologies. She launched the AI Industry Connection Forum and continues to advocate for responsible and inclusive AI adoption. Rita’s leadership positions Australia at the forefront of digital transformation, showcasing how AI can build better futures for business, communities, and society.
Louise McGrath
Moderator: Panel Session 2
Australian Industry Group (AIGroup)
Louise McGrath is Head of Industry Development and Policy at the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group), where she drives strategies to strengthen Australia’s industrial base, trade, and innovation. Since joining Ai Group in 2000, she has built extensive expertise across government and industry partnerships. Louise represents Australian business globally through B20 Taskforces, the Global Business Coalition, and free trade forums. She also serves on advisory groups such as CSIRO’s Responsible Use of AI Think Tank and the Modern Slavery Expert Advisory Group. Recognised for her insight into global competitiveness, Louise is a national voice on industry policy and international engagement.
Andrew Higgins
Panel Session 2
Director, Aboriginal Engagement & Student Services, TAFE NSW
Andrew Higgins is a proud Wiradjuri, Ngemba, and Awabakal man dedicated to cultural safety and Aboriginal student success. As Director of Aboriginal Engagement and Student Support, he has led programs like the Marathon Health Aboriginal Wellness Worker traineeship, creating pathways into mental health careers while supporting rural communities. Andrew’s work bridges institutions and communities, ensuring Aboriginal voices are heard in education and policy. His leadership focuses on equity, empowerment, and strengthening cultural identity for students. With a commitment to long-term change, Andrew fosters opportunities that enable young Aboriginal people to thrive academically, personally, and professionally in culturally respectful environments.
Tom Ryan
Panel Session 2
Director, Infrastructure Delivery, TAFE NSW
Tom Ryan is Director of Infrastructure Delivery at TAFE NSW, overseeing the design, procurement, and delivery of major capital works programs. With a background in engineering and project management, Tom brings expertise in planning, contract governance, and stakeholder engagement across complex, large-scale infrastructure. His leadership ensures projects deliver value for government, communities, and industry partners. Tom is committed to embedding sustainability, innovation, and Indigenous participation in infrastructure delivery, recognising the sector’s role in building inclusive growth. He works closely with government and industry stakeholders to align infrastructure outcomes with policy, community, and cultural priorities.
Andrew Latimore
Panel Session 2
Director, Facility Management, TAFE NSW
Andrew Latimore is Director of Facility Management at TAFE NSW, where he leads the strategic management of public assets and facilities across the state. With a strong background in property, operations, and maintenance, Andrew ensures facilities are safe, efficient, and sustainable. His role includes embedding social outcomes into contracts, leveraging procurement to support Indigenous businesses and community benefits. Andrew is passionate about ensuring facility management aligns with government priorities in sustainability and Aboriginal participation. His leadership strengthens the link between public asset stewardship and long-term community and economic development outcomes.
Amy Morgan
Panel Session 2
Director, Manufacturing Centres of Excellence, TAFE NSW
Amy Morgan is Director of the Manufacturing Centres of Excellence at TAFE NSW, leading industry-aligned training that strengthens advanced manufacturing capability across the state. She collaborates with employers, unions and government to co-design programs that address critical skills shortages while opening pathways for under-represented learners, including Aboriginal students. Amy has overseen facility upgrades, launched micro-credentials, and built partnerships that connect training with real jobs across NSW supply chains. Her leadership ensures TAFE remains responsive to industry needs and community priorities. At The Summit 2025, Amy will highlight how training, infrastructure and procurement connect to drive sovereign capability and opportunity.
Danny Lester
Best Practice in Government Leadership Presentation
Executive Director, Aboriginal Strategy, Policy & Engagement Division, NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure
Danny Lester is a proud Worimi man with extensive leadership across government, education, and Indigenous affairs. Formerly NSW Deputy Ombudsman (Aboriginal Programs) and CEO of Aboriginal Employment Strategy, Danny has dedicated his career to advancing Aboriginal participation in education, training, and employment. He has served on numerous boards and advisory bodies, championing policy reform and community-driven solutions. Danny is recognised nationally for his commitment to closing the gap and creating systemic opportunities for Aboriginal people. His leadership combines advocacy, cultural insight, and strategic influence, ensuring Aboriginal voices are embedded in decision-making across public, corporate, and community sectors.
Amy Brice
Best Practice in Government Leadership Presentation
Senior Management, Procurement, EnergyCo NSW
Amy Brice is Acting Senior Management of Procurement at EnergyCo. She leads procurement transformation, aligning strategy with accountability, transparency, and community outcomes. Amy has championed sustainable procurement practices and embedded Aboriginal participation targets that exceed minimum standards. Her career spans senior roles in public sector procurement, where she has consistently focused on ethical sourcing and long-term social impact. At EnergyCo, Amy drives reforms that ensure procurement is not only cost-effective but also a powerful lever for equity, diversity, and economic inclusion in government projects across NSW.
Lyniece Keogh
Moderator: Indigenous Business Showcase 2
Founder & CEO, Integ8ty
Lyniece Keogh is the Founder and Director of Integr8y, an Indigenous-owned business delivering socially impactful solutions across government, corporate, and community partnerships. Through her leadership, Integr8y develops initiatives that expand Aboriginal participation and economic development. Lyniece is passionate about creating opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and strengthening communities through inclusive business models. Her approach blends innovation with cultural integrity, building partnerships that deliver long-term impact. A respected advocate for Indigenous business, Lyniece continues to champion initiatives that foster prosperity and ensure Aboriginal voices are central in shaping Australia’s social and economic future.
Fletcher Watson
Indigenous Business Showcase 2
Wildfire
Fletcher Watson a proud Gamilaroi man is the Co-Founder and Executive Producer of Wildfire Content, an Indigenous-owned creative production company specialising in premium storytelling for brands, corporates, and communities. Driven by a passion for using creativity to amplify Indigenous voices, Fletcher leads Wildfire Content in blending cultural knowledge with modern design and technology to produce work that resonates across all audiences and platforms. His approach champions authenticity, innovation, and the power of story to connect people and inspire change. With experience spanning traditional media, digital, and social platforms, Fletcher has created campaign films, branded stories, and global campaigns that celebrate culture and creativity. Beyond content creation, he is deeply committed to building pathways for the next generation of Indigenous creatives through the Wildfire Pathways Programs, fostering talent and showcasing the excellence of First Nations storytellers across all forms of media in Australia.
Connor Watson
Indigenous Business Showcase 2
Wildfire
Connor Watson, a proud Gamilaroi man, is the Co-Founder of Wildfire Content, an Indigenous-owned creative production company. With a background in professional sport and media, Connor brings creativity, leadership and cultural advocacy to every project. Passionate about using digital platforms to elevate Indigenous perspectives and create opportunities for young Aboriginal people, Connor plays a key role in shaping Wildfire’s mission to connect culture with contemporary storytelling. His work champions authenticity and inclusion, showcasing Indigenous talent across sport, media, and creative industries. Combining entrepreneurial drive with community outcomes, Connor continues to inspire through his leadership in sport, storytelling and business, ensuring Aboriginal voices are represented proudly and powerfully across Australia’s creative landscape.
Angus Walker
Indigenous Business Showcase 2
ANA Asphalts
Angus Walker is Managing Director of ANA Asphalt, a respected Indigenous-owned business in civil construction and infrastructure. Under his leadership, the company has built a reputation for delivering quality asphalt and roadwork projects while maximising Indigenous employment and participation. Angus is dedicated to creating opportunities for Aboriginal workers and subcontractors within the infrastructure sector, ensuring growth is both inclusive and sustainable. His vision is for ANA Asphalt to serve as a model of Indigenous business excellence, combining technical expertise with community impact. Angus continues to strengthen pathways for Aboriginal participation in Australia’s expanding construction and civil industries.
Amy Allerton
Indigenous Business Showcase 2
Indigico Creative
Amy Allerton is a proud Indigenous entrepreneur and the Founder and Managing Director of Indigico Creative, a leading Indigenous-owned design and communications agency. She combines cultural knowledge with creative innovation, delivering campaigns that amplify Aboriginal voices and stories. Through Indigico Creative, Amy partners with governments, corporates, and community organisations to create impactful and culturally authentic communications. She is committed to nurturing Indigenous creative talent and building pathways for the next generation. Amy’s leadership ensures Aboriginal perspectives are embedded across the creative industries, positioning her as a dynamic voice in design, storytelling, and Indigenous entrepreneurship.
Adam Williams
Indigenous Business Showcase 2
Dhuwa Coffee
Adam Williams is the visionary founder and owner behind DHUWA Coffee, committed to forging a path for Indigenous business excellence. A proud Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal man, Adam brings nearly 30 years’ experience in brand development, sales strategy and consumer markets across FMCG sectors. Under his leadership, DHUWA Coffee became the first Indigenous-owned coffee brand to secure national retail distribution in Australia, now stocked in Woolworths stores.
His ethos — “reconciliation in a cup” — marries commercial rigour with deep cultural integrity, driving social impact, community empowerment and authentic storytelling through every blend.
​​The Summit 2025 Awards & Gala Dinner
Get ready for an unforgettable night at The Summit 2025 Awards & Gala Dinner!
Taking the stage as co-MCs, two of Australia’s most dynamic talents — Ernie Dingo and Dean Widders — will guide us through a night of celebration, connection, and culture. With their warmth, energy, and storytelling, they will ensure the evening is both entertaining and deeply meaningful.
The program will feature powerful cultural performances from Waagan Galga and Toby Cedar’s Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam, showcasing the richness and diversity of First Nations traditions through dance, music, and storytelling.
To close the evening in spectacular fashion, proud Ghungalu man Jaymon Bob — Top-6 finalist on Australian Idol 2025 (Channel 7) — will headline the entertainment, bringing his soulful voice and captivating performance to the stage for a show-stopping finale.
Uncle Ernie Dingo
Actor, Presenter & Aboriginal Advocate
Ernie Dingo AM, a proud Yamatji man, is one of Australia’s most beloved entertainers. With more than four decades across screen and stage—including Crocodile Dundee II, The Tracker, and hosting The Great Outdoors—he is renowned for his cultural insight and storytelling. In 2025, he co-hosted That Blackfella Show, a NAIDOC Week ABC special celebrating Indigenous creativity. Beyond entertainment, Ernie advocates strongly for Aboriginal culture, health, and education. Honoured as a Member of the Order of Australia, he continues to mentor emerging talent, champion community initiatives, and inspire audiences nationwide through his enduring leadership and commitment to First Nations representation.
Dean Widders
Indigenous Engagement Manager, NRL
Dean Widders is a proud Anaiwan man, former NRL star, coach, and commentator who has become a leading advocate for Indigenous participation in sport, education, and leadership. Following his successful NRL career, Dean dedicated himself to mentoring young Aboriginal athletes and promoting pathways that combine sporting excellence with cultural pride. Through his ambassadorial work with the NRL and community programs, he encourages healthier lifestyles, leadership, and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Dean’s influence extends beyond the field, as he works to ensure sport remains a powerful tool for inclusion, empowerment, and intergenerational change in Indigenous communities.
Toby Cedar & Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam
Performance
​Experience the power and beauty of Torres Strait Islander culture with Toby Cedar & Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam. Through captivating dance, traditional music, and vibrant storytelling, their performance will honour ancestral traditions while sharing the living culture of the Torres Strait with guests. This unforgettable showcase will add depth, energy, and cultural richness to the evening’s celebrations.
Waagan Galga​
Performance
Celebrate the strength and beauty of Wonnarua culture with Waagan Galga. Through dynamic dance, powerful storytelling, and deep cultural symbolism, their performance will connect guests to the traditions of Wonnarua Country and the wisdom of the old ways. This engaging and moving showcase will inspire pride, unity, and connection, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.
The Hon. David Harris MP​
NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty; Minister for Gaming and Racing; Minister for Veterans; Minister for Medical Research
The Honourable David Harris MP is the NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, Minister for Gaming and Racing, Minister for Veterans, and Minister for Medical Research. With decades of service to the people of NSW, he has been a strong advocate for Aboriginal communities, regional development, and social equity. As Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, David is leading work on truth-telling and treaty, while embedding stronger outcomes for Aboriginal people across government programs. He is committed to building opportunities through education, procurement and employment. At The Summit 2025, he will outline government priorities for reconciliation and inclusion in NSW.
Jaymon Bob​
Headliner Entertainment
Proud Ghungalu man Jaymon Bob rose to national recognition as a Top-6 finalist on Australian Idol 2025 (Channel 7), captivating audiences with his soulful vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful stage presence. From his beginnings as a local handyman in Rockhampton to becoming one of the most exciting emerging Indigenous artists in Australia, Jaymon’s journey embodies resilience, talent, and cultural pride. At The Summit 2025 Awards & Gala Dinner, Jaymon will bring his unique blend of R&B, country, and contemporary sounds to the stage, delivering an unforgettable headline performance that will celebrate Indigenous excellence and close out the Summit in style.