Wamarra acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands upon which we work, live and socialise. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who we recognise as Australia’s First Peoples whose cultural practices continue today.
The award recognises a First Nations-owned business demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation and impact within Victoria’s civil construction industry. To receive this recognition among peers and industry leaders means a great deal to everyone at Wamarra.
Leadership grounded in people and purpose
As an Aboriginal-owned and operated, self-performing contractor, Wamarra was established with a clear mandate: deliver quality infrastructure while strengthening Aboriginal participation and leadership across the construction industry.
In just six years, we’ve delivered more than 160 projects valued at over $250 million, generated more than 420,000 Aboriginal employment hours and built a workforce of more than 90 people, with nearly 60 per cent identifying as Aboriginal.
A core part of our approach is developing capability from within. Through our Bulabul Development Program, meaning “together”, we provide structured training, mentoring and on-site experience to support emerging Aboriginal supervisors and future leaders. These pathways have helped team members progress into machinery operation, leading hand and supervisory roles, creating real and lasting career progression.
Our connection to community also extends beyond the worksite, including partnerships like the Fitzroy Stars Football Club, helping create visibility and pathways into civil construction for young Aboriginal people.
A shared achievement
Managing Director Hayden Heta said the award reflects the people behind the business.
“This recognition is a reflection of our team, their commitment, their pride in their work and the way they support one another every day,” Hayden said.
“From the beginning, we set out to prove that strong cultural foundations and strong commercial outcomes can go hand in hand. To have that acknowledged by our industry is incredibly meaningful.”
Winning the First Nations Leadership Award is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of, not just for Wamarra, but for what it represents for Aboriginal businesses and leadership within the civil construction industry.
A massive shoutout to finalist and fellow First Nations-owned business, First Nations Traffic Management, who continue to make a huge impact in the industry.
While Friday night marked a special moment, it reinforces our ongoing focus: continuing to create real, lasting opportunities for Aboriginal people across Australia.
