What's unfolding on Robe River Kuruma Country isn't just another joint venture—it's a recalibration of how economic power and Indigenous ownership should look in practice. Through the establishment of two significant joint ventures—one with CSI, the other with MinRes Air—Robe River Services and the RRK community are carving a path that places Traditional Owners at the centre of operations, governance and long-term strategy.
"These partnerships are about genuine co-ownership, shared decision-making, and long-term impact," says Kelly Slattery, Chairperson of Robe River Kuruma Aboriginal Corporation and RRS.
Unlike legacy models that sidelined Traditional Owners or offered short-term gain, these JVs embed RRK as equal partners from day one.
"RRK doesn't just have a seat at the table—they co-own the table."
The first of the two JVs—between RRS and CSI—focuses on building skills across a broad swathe of mining services, from operating excavators and dump trucks to roles in safety and administration. The second, with MinRes Air, opens up an entirely new frontier: aviation. Here, RRK members can pursue pathways all the way from ground handling to becoming certified Aerodrome Reporting Officers.
"These programs aren't just about entry-level roles—they're designed to build careers," says MinRes Chief Executive Mining Services, Mike Grey. He points to the combination of "on-the-job experience, industry-specific training, and support systems" that ensure RRK members can progress into higher-skilled, long-term roles across the MinRes network.
It's already producing tangible results. From an inaugural contract for premium workforce coach hire through RRS, to early wins with businesses like Djeleanna, Ngarliya Contracting and Jaliyarnu Yinta, the strategy is delivering immediate benefits and building future capacity.
Importantly, the JVs operate on RRK Country itself—a choice that was deliberate and strategic. "Doing business on RRK Country means doing it the right way—with respect, cultural alignment, and local knowledge leading the way," Slattery explains.
As a model, this partnership is grounded in more than profit. "Real success," says Grey, "is defined by the sustainable economic empowerment of both RRS and the RRK community." That means growing asset ownership, supporting Indigenous enterprise, and building a workforce that can lead, not follow.
These aren't short-term measures—they're long-term investments in sovereignty, economic independence, and a future where RRK leads from the front.