the Kimberley’s leading Aboriginal sport & recreation organisation

We drive change and improve lives, utilising culturally safe sport and health promotion programs.

our vision

Healthy, active and strong communities through the power of sport and recreation.

our purpose

To empower people by promoting our values of culture, community and leadership through sport and recreation.

our origin

Garnduwa Amboorny Wirnan was established in 1992 in response to the growing need for a representative Indigenous sporting body in the Kimberley. Our name is derived from languages within the Kullarri, Malarabah, and Wirnan regions. It means ‘big mob of people coming together to do something’.

Our logo depicts the freshwater crocodile and saltwater turtle. These two animals represent the fresh and saltwater people of the Kimberley inland and coast.


Our development programs bring together many Kimberley groups to appreciate culture, celebrate community and connect through a love of sport and recreation.

Our values

  • We recognise and embed Aboriginal culture across all of our programming. Aboriginal culture and self-determination are vital to our organisation.

  • Community is an intrinsic part of how we work with and learn from Aboriginal people, contributing to the safety and development of our people, and ensuring our communities are healthy and have strong liyan (wellbeing).

  • Garnduwa is led by strong Aboriginal people and built for the positive mentorship and development of young Aboriginal leaders. Enhancing the leadership skills and qualities of communities is crucial to the success of our Kimberley youth as future leaders.

Partnerships ARE IMPORTANT TO US & OUR COMMUNITIES.

GET IN TOUCH TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN MAKE aN IMPACT IN THE KIMBERLEY TOGETHER

Our core business

  • the lives of Aboriginal people by providing opportunities to participate in sport and recreation.

  • the capacity of Kimberley communities to implement and deliver sustainable and self-sufficient sport and recreation programs.

  • a culturally safe environment to support positive social and emotional wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.

  • communities to identify resources and engage partners to support them in the delivery of their activities and improve community sporting facilities.

Our focus

  • We recognise the power of sports and recreational activities in promoting physical and mental wellbeing, fostering social connections, and enhancing personal development. Through our sports programs, coaching clinics, and community events, we provide opportunities for individuals of all ages to engage in healthy, active lifestyles.

  • Our youth development programs are designed to inspire, mentor, and empower young Aboriginal individuals, equipping them with the skills, resilience, and confidence to navigate the challenges of their formative years and pursue their dreams

  • We are passionate about supporting lifelong learning and educational opportunities for Aboriginal people. Through partnerships with educational training bodies and local, state and national sporting associations, we aim to break down barriers and promote educational achievement and career advancement. We prioritise employment opportunities for Aboriginal people to work and contribute to the development of sport and recreation within their own communities.

  • Recognising the critical importance of a holistic approach to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing, we collaborate with healthcare professionals and community organisations to deliver culturally appropriate health education sessions, raising awareness, and providing support for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

our people

our people

Passionate |dedicated |Knowledgeable

We have been operating in the kimberley for over 30 years.

As a proud Aboriginal organisation we honour our cultural heritage, and the histories and stories of our communities. Our staff are dedicated to a shared vision for Kimberley communities. We are committed to respecting culture and tradition as well as striving for continuous improvement and ensuring we are impacting our communities consistently and positively.

OUR board

  • Marmingee Hand

    Chairperson

  • Darren Mitchelson

  • Trish McKay

  • Deon Cox

  • Trevor Ozies

OUR TEAM

  • Michael Albert

    CEO

  • Layla Yu

    Deputy CEO

  • Amanda Gregory

    Program Performance Manager

  • Alex Carkeek

    Partnerships & Strategy Manager

  • Courtney Hayson

    Corporate Services Manager

  • Simone Haugh

    Kimberley Spirit Program Manager

  • Riley Dolman

    West Kimberley Area Manager

  • Bernadette Garlett

    Office Coordinator

  • Dylan King

    Communications Coordinator

  • Charlie Moylan

    Fitzroy Valley Football Operations Officer

  • Lachie Walley

    Derby Active Communities Coordinator

  • Matt Arnold

    Kununurra Active Communities Coordinator

  • Cordell Green

    Halls Creek Senior Development Officer

  • Harry Jones

    Kununurra Senior Development Officer