About Us

‘Goondoi’ is the Aboriginal word for the iconic cassowary bird.

Goondoi Arts Aboriginal Corporation is an organisation of Traditional Owners with a holistic vision for the social and economic development of Indigenous communities. Goondoi Arts Aboriginal Corporation, founded and run by Traditional Custodians, envisions a holistic approach to the social and economic development of Indigenous communities. We are dedicated to preserving our Country and culture by uniting as one voice, supporting community programs such as land and sea stewardship, and promoting First Nations arts and cultural activities.

Our mission is to maintain and strengthen our cultural connection to Country, empowering our people to stand tall and take pride in their identity, thereby enriching the future of our community.

Initially operating informally as Goondoi Arts, we have a longstanding partnership with Radiant Life College in Innisfail. Over the years, Goondoi Arts has directed and managed cultural programs, including art production and sales, dance and music education, along with public performances.

Traditional Custodians and Elders play a vital role in our organisation, passing on invaluable cultural knowledge, language, and history.

Goondoi Arts Aboriginal Corporation remains dedicated to preserving our rich cultural heritage and fostering the growth and pride of our community members.

PRESERVING COUNTRY AND CULTURE

Goondoi Aboriginal Arts Corporation, located on the Dyirribarra and Bagirbarra lands of North Queensland (Innisfail), serves as a hub for cultural education and environmental guardianship. With its name drawing from the cassowary – Goondoi in the local languages – the organisation reflects the bird’s role in nurturing the ecosystem, embodying a commitment to the growth and support of Indigenous youth. Goondoi, in partnership with Radiant Life College, has created a space where cultural identity and environmental awareness are interwoven with education, driving a mission that extends beyond the classroom to the heart of the community.

AN INTERVIEW WITH KI-SHAUN FEJO

In this insightful interview, Ki-Shaun Fejo delves into the heart of the Strong Peoples-Strong Country pilot project. The framework monitors the health and condition of the Great Barrier Reef, and how inter-connected these values are to the quality of life for Traditional Owner communities around the Reef. It reflects social, cultural, health, economic and environmental aspects, as well as the land and sea Country that Traditional Owners have a cultural connection, responsibility and obligation to care for.