On 4 August 2026, NSWICC joined Learning with Country, hosted by the Learning Environments Australasia (LEA) NSW Chapter at Pier Ninety Seven in Wickham on Awabakal Country. The LEA NSW Chapter connects educators, architects and designers who work to plan and improve educational spaces. The event brought Indigenous and non-Indigenous community and professional knowledge into the same room to reflect on Country, learning, and the relationships that underpin meaningful work.
A highlight of the event was the contribution of NSWICC Assured Member Mawambul Design and Cultural Consultancy. CEO David Newham shared insights with attendees, while COO Heather Kember facilitated the discussion. Mawambul means "together" in Wiradjuri language, a fitting expression of the spirit of the event.
Country as Teacher
David's contribution centred on Country as teacher. He spoke about knowledge that sits in Country and the responsibility to approach that knowledge with humility, deep listening and genuine reciprocity.
One reflection from the evening resonated strongly: the real return on the relationships we build is not the transaction they produce, but the relationship itself. This is a powerful principle for all sectors, including business and economic development.
Creating Access to Shared Spaces
Courtney Rubie, a Wiradjuri woman and Associate Lecturer in Indigenous Education at the University of Newcastle, also contributed to the discussion. Her observation, "We live in the same places but we don't exist in the same spaces", offered an important challenge to everyone in the room.
For NSWICC, this idea reflects why the Chamber exists. We work to help close the gap between the places Indigenous people and businesses occupy and the spaces they are given access to. Whether through membership, certification, procurement connections, advocacy or partnerships, NSWICC works to create opportunities grounded in Country, community and genuine relationship.
The event was a reminder that the way we do business matters. Indigenous ways of seeing, doing and connecting to Country and community continue to guide how NSWICC supports members and builds partnerships across New South Wales.
NSWICC congratulates David Newham, Heather Kember, Courtney Rubie, the LEA NSW Chapter and the other speakers on an event that offered meaningful insight and reflection.
Learn more: LEA NSW Chapter Learning with Country | Mawambul Design and Cultural Consultancy
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