Today, the Robe River Kuruma (RRK) Traditional Custodian is the founder and leader of Jaliyarnu Yinta (JY), a 100% Aboriginal-owned business now operating under a five-year contract with Mineral Resources (MinRes) at its Onslow Iron project in Western Australia's Pilbara region.
"It never dawned on me that I could lead a business and a team of people," Georgina said.
"When the opportunity to do something on Country was presented by MinRes, I jumped at the chance."
The contract, awarded in July 2025, sees JY deliver ground maintenance services at the company's resort-style accommodation near the Ken's Bore mine site – the traditional Country of the RRK people.
The work encompasses everything from lawns and garden beds to trees, shrubs and shared facilities, with environmental and cultural considerations embedded in how the team operates day to day.
For Georgina and her team, turning up to work means something far greater than fulfilling a contract. It means caring for Country in a way that is both practical and deeply personal.
Building JY from the ground up has not been without its challenges. Georgina navigated the demands of establishing a compliant, competitive business for the first time – learning as she went and leaning into the mentorship and structured support provided throughout the process.
"There was a lot of paperwork I had to do to get to this point," she said.
"But the biggest thing I've learnt is that you can do anything you put your mind to. It's such a big thing for me to have my logo out there and to show my family what I can do."
JY is now operating with a full team and has created four traineeships for local Aboriginal people, opening a pathway for younger community members to gain meaningful employment and develop their skills on Country.
"Being able to provide local people with jobs and traineeships is an opportunity for the younger generation to come out on Country," Georgina said.
"It gives them a meaningful role and helps them build pride in themselves."
Working together for a common purpose
MinRes Manager Aboriginal Business Development Ashley Carey said the partnership with JY reflects the company's broader commitment to building relationships with Traditional Owners that go beyond contractual obligation.
"Georgina's cultural leadership and guidance are instrumental in fostering a strong, collaborative relationship with the RRK community," Ashley said.
"This partnership recognises JY's importance within the Pilbara business community and demonstrates our commitment to building authentic relationships with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal businesses, grounded in mutual respect and shared success."
With nearly 12 months of the contract complete and a full team on the ground, Jaliyarnu Yinta stands as a compelling example of what becomes possible when industry creates genuine space for Traditional Custodians to lead.
Learn more about MinRes’ approach to Traditional Owner engagement and partnerships.
