Official Indigenous Business Gateway Virtual Launch
We’re thrilled to have you join us as we introduce a new digital home built to elevate Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.
We created the Gateway to put verified capability front and centre; a place where our Members can confidently showcase their strengths, and where government and industry buyers can easily find the right partners to advance their procurement, ESG, RAP, and local content goals.
This is not just the debut of a platform. It’s a milestone for our sector and a step forward in visibility, opportunity, and economic growth driven by our communities’ talent, resilience, and innovation. We’re so excited to share it with you.
Our Event Speakers
Baringa Barambah Meeanjinu
Turrbal and Gubbi Gubbi Woman, Songwoman, Lore-woman in Training
Baringa Barambah Meeanjinu is a Songwoman of the Turrbal People and is the daughter of Turrbal Elder, Maroochy Barambah. She grew up on her ancestral homelands of Meeanjin (Brisbane) learning the traditional laws and customs from her elders. She is passionate about working with Indigenous communities to improve social, cultural and economic outcomes.
Carly Forrest
Mandandanji Woman, Tonight's Master of Ceremonies, QIBN Deputy CEO
Carly Forrest is a proud Mandandanji woman and founder of The Dreaming Collective, a consultancy dedicated to strengthening Indigenous business capability and cultural governance. With over 12 years of experience in leadership, workforce development, and community engagement, Carly works with businesses and organisations to create meaningful partnerships and drive sustainable First Nations economic growth.
Hon. Fiona Simpson MP
Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Multiculturalism
Fiona Simpson is the Member for Maroochydore and a long-serving representative for the Sunshine Coast community. First elected in 1992, she has built a strong reputation for practical advocacy and local commitment. Over her career, Fiona has held a wide range of shadow portfolios, including Health, Transport, Tourism, Women, Communities, Housing, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, among others. In 2012, she became Queensland’s first female Speaker, marking a significant milestone in the Parliament’s 150-year history.
Julie-ann Lambourne
Wagedagam and Samsep Woman, QIBN Co-Chair and Acting CEO
Julie-ann Lambourne has a wealth of experience with over 30 years specialising in innovation, business strategy and advisory, workforce development and community development. Julie-ann is a co-founder and Co-chairperson of Queensland Indigenous Business Network (QIBN). Julie-ann also has her own consultancy business providing national Indigenous advisory services within the renewables sector and other industries. She is passionate in development and sustainability of Indigenous businesses, innovation and enabling our future leaders.
Shane Kennelly
Bundjalung Man, QIBN Co-Chair, Managing Director of Kennelly Constructions
With more than 25 years in senior executive roles, Shane Kennelly has a strong track record of leading and growing businesses across the defence, recruitment, telecommunications, construction, resources, and energy sectors. Shane brings extensive experience in governance, strategic management, HR, risk, WHS, and construction, offering a well-rounded perspective shaped by both business and government leadership.
Join QIBN Today
If you haven’t started your membership journey yet, now’s a great time. Join QIBN and become a verified Queensland Indigenous supplier through the Indigenous Business Gateway.