Western Australia's peak Indigenous tourism body has a new chair, looking to build their capacity to go from strength to strength and take their partners with them.
Nhanda Yamaji man Darren 'Capes' Capewell, owner and operator of Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures in Gathaagudu (Shark Bay) in the state's mid-west, has stepped up into the role at WAITOC (Western Australia Indigenous Tourism Operators Council) after years as vice chair.
Meaning 'you come this way', Wula Gura Nyinda is an award-winning experience provider.
Indigenous tourism is recognised as one of seven 'pillars' to the state's broader tourism sector, which brought a collective $14 billion in spending by visitors in 2022, per WA 2023-2033 10 year strategy.
Post-Covid, domestic visitors who once flocked to tourism opportunities, including Aboriginal tours and experiences, haven't returned in the same numbers now borders are back open, WAITOC chief executive Robert Taylor told National Indigenous Times at 2024's Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference in Naarm.
They remain vital to even an even stronger sector going ahead, he said.
"So international visitation is really the strongest at the moment. If we could turn domestic tourism around the businesses be more successful than ever," Mr Taylor said.
Mr Capewell has an eye on securing more financial support from the state government, and personally, to building on the foundations laid out by those before him at the Council, to deliver more in their space and create the framework for that success.
"We want to be the leaders in that space and drag others with us," he told National Indigenous Times.
"We consider WAITOC to be a family. Whether you're on the board or you're a member, you're part of the WAITOC family.
"We'll certainly look to make our mark over the next 12 months, for the next five years, and really consolidate our brand and our position within the tourism space."
As the peak and non-profit, WAITOC represents close to 200 members, per their website.
In addition, Destination Perth's, via In Culture Tours, Steven Jacobs has been elected vice chair, with Koomal Dreaming's Josh Whiteland and Just Over the Hills' Ronald Morgan now directors.
Uptuyu Adventures' Neville Poelina, Johani Mamid from Mabu Buru Tours, and Robyne Reynolds from Koolark Retreat have also been reappointed directors for a three-year team, within WAITOC's 10 person board.
Walter McGuire was recognised for his service as chair, now outgoing, and WAITOC's growth during his time.
"On behalf of WAITOC and the Board, I extend our deepest appreciation to Walter for his leadership and commitment," WAITOC chief executive Robert Taylor said.
Mr Capewell sees the greater benefits outside the business and commercial opportunity which comes with cultural tourism.
To go with the commercial and business aspect, "it's not just about dollars and cents", he said.
"Social wellbeing, obviously being out on Country is good medicine, allowing us to be able to look after Country, to be able to tell our stories in a way that's positive and in a unique environment. It takes a lot of boxes in regard to conservation, social and physical, mental wellbeing, education, introducing kids and people to the environment," Mr Capewell said.
"There's a lot more attention to detail and a lot more opportunity for people to engage with Aboriginal people, in all facets," he added, "(tourism) is a wonderful vehicle for us to be able to do that."
WAITOC has built a strong brand, domestically and internationally, Mr Capewell noted.
