Gulf Connect Forum 2024

Moungibi (Burketown), Australia – It was a great honour for Head Start Homes' Founder and Managing Director, Stephen Woodlands, and Chair Vanessa Chan, to attend the Gulf Connect Forum 2024, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Carpentaria Aboriginal Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (CLCAC).

The Forum, themed "Green Economies and Economic Development", provided a once in a lifetime opportunity for Head Start Homes to listen and learn from the Traditional Owners as well as showcase our work alongside of First Nations Communities to increase housing and home ownership opportunities and outcomes.

CLCAC was founded in 1982 as a community-based organisation to represent, protect and secure the rights and interests of Aboriginal people in the Lower Gulf of Carpentaria. Today, CLCAC is the largest and most eminent corporate entity representing the interests of nine constituent language groups being: Gangalidda, Garawa, Gkuthaarn, Kaiadilt, Kukatj, Kurtijar, Lardil, Waanyi and Yangkaal.

As active forum participants, Stephen and Vanessa collaborated with the Traditional Owners, local First Nations businesses, and cross-sector representatives and guests from across Australia.

A highlight was meeting Jordan, one of five homeowners in Moungibi thanks to Head Start Homes. It was a beautiful reminder of the tangible impact of our work to help individuals and communities achieve their home ownership dreams.

The four-day camping experience in Moungibi (Burketown), one of the most remote locations in Australia, deepended their understanding of the unique challenges faced by remote communities.

Stephen Woodlands shared, "Our time in Moungibi was more than an exchange; it was an expression of our commitment to Traditional Owners, First Nations communities and their aspirations. The conversations and connections we made have left an indelible mark on our mission to provide fair and practical pathways to home ownership for remote communities."
Vanessa Chan reflected, "Witnessing the impact of our initiatives firsthand and seeing the joy of home ownership in the community was incredibly moving. It reaffirms our dedication to creating solutions that are respectful of the cultural significance of land and the people's connection to it."

Head Start Homes’ presentation at the Gulf Connect Forum highlighted the barriers to home ownership and showcased how Head Start Homes' Empowerment Products and Services are making the housing and home ownership system fairer for all, especially single mothers, First Nations Peoples, and social housing tenants.

Cultural Engagement:

The four-day camping experience provided an opportunity for Stephen and Vanessa to live, learn, and share meals with the Traditional Owners, fostering a genuine understanding of the community's way of life.
This immersive experience allowed them to listen to the stories and wisdom of the Elders, participate in traditional practices, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the land.
The insights gained from this cultural engagement have further strengthened Head Start Homes' resolve to bring about more equal access to housing and home ownership for

We express our sincere gratitude to the Carpentaria Aboriginal Land Council Aboriginal Corporation for arranging such a special event and hosting us. Also, a big thank you to Murrandoo, Rachel, and Scott for making us feel so welcome.