Search

Crafty pair among trio of Indigenous businesses up for Queensland export gong

David Prestipino -

A non-alcoholic craft beer company run by a husband and wife team are among three finalists in the First Nations category of the Premier of Queensland's Export Awards.

Clinton and Lozen Schultz established Sobah Beverages in 2017 on beautiful Kombumerri country, the Gold Coast, and have since built a reputation for raising positive awareness of First Nations culture, while also breaking down stigmas of socialising sober.

The company, whose non-alcoholic craft beers are infused with native fruit and spices, joined Kakadu Organics from Samford Village and Cairn's-based Mainie Australia as 2024 finalists in the Indigenous category.

Mr Schultz said it was a significant honour for the team to be named a finalist.

"This nomination not only recognises our commitment to producing high-quality, non-alcoholic beverages that celebrate First Nation's culture and ingredients, but also highlights our efforts in taking our unique products to the international market," said the Sobah Beverage director.

"It serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and it validates our mission to share First Nations knowledge and sustainable practices with the world.

"It will also motivate us further to continue our journey of growth, innovation, and cultural promotion on a global stage."

He said Trade and Investment Queensland had been instrumental in helping Sobah achieve its export goals, providing support and resources tailored to the business.

"Through their comprehensive programs and initiatives, TIQ has provided us with valuable market insights, export readiness advice, and opportunities to connect with international distributors and buyers," Mr Schultz said.

"Their guidance has enabled us to navigate the complexities of the global market with confidence, and has opened doors for us to showcase our products at international trade fairs and events in South-East Asia and the UK."

A year ago, Sobah found its spiritual home at Burleigh Heads, establishing a 50hL brewery complete with a café, art gallery, and retail shop.

Despite some delays due to construction and equipment issues, it proudly launched a new-look product range earlier this year, ushering in a new era for Sobah.

Queensland was the first state in Australia to introduce a First Nations category and continued to recognise Women in International Business in another dedicated field.

TIQ chief executive officer Justin McGowan said Queensland supported First Nations businesses by developing a whole-of-government First Nations economic strategy with TIQ to support economic participation and self-empowerment.

It also appointed successful Indigenous business leaders Jack Reis and Delvene Cockatoo-Collins to its board and First Nations Advisory Committee, to strengthen the state's promotion of First Nations businesses to the world.

"Australia's First Nations people are our first traders, and it's crucial that we support businesses in every corner of Queensland to achieve export success," Mr McGowan said.

He was thrilled for the three Indigenous business finalists.

"They are all great inspirations to First Nations businesses," Mr McGowan said.

The trio of Indigenous businesses were among 46 Queensland companies stretching from Cairns to the Gold Coast representing best in industry across a range of sectors.

Other finalists in 2024 include a fifth-generation developer of advanced cropping procedures from the Western Downs, a visual effects leader from Fortitude Valley working with Netflix and other global production houses, and a Gold Coast inventor of Australia's first stroller wagon with a built-in cooler.

Now in their 34th year, the Export Awards recognise Queensland businesses for their innovation, resilience, and determination, as they strive to grow and expand globally.

The Premier of Queensland's Export Awards 2024 winners will be announced at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on September 4, with winners in each national category represented at the Australian Export Awards in Canberra in November.

TIQ had its best-performing year in its 10-year history last financial year, facilitating 437 export deals for Queensland companies upwards of $907 million.

It has 21 international offices in 16 locations globally, plus a regional network of eight offices and its Brisbane headquarters.

Further details on the Premier of Queensland's Export Awards 2024 can be found online.

   Related   

   David Prestipino   

Download our App

Article Audio

National Indigenous Times