6 March 2026

“This is about us, as a mob, showcasing our entrepreneurial ability to the rest of the community.” 

So said Indigenous Employment Coordinator Joanne Brunt at Deadly in Gippsland (DiG) First Nations Business Expo in Sale last Friday. 

And Jo’s short quote got straight to the heart of what DiG is all about. 

That entrepreneurial ability was certainly on display, with a diverse array of businesses represented. 

As the thunderstorm raged outside, inside the Sale Memorial Hall were Aboriginal-owned and led businesses from many different sectors; from cultural arts and crafts makers to solar, electrical and plumbing contractors, meditation and wellness experts, clothes designers and business consultants. 

“Coming to expos like this is a great way to showcase what we’re about as Aboriginal businesses, and the commitment we’ve got to our community, but also how we participate in the economy,” said Ricky Morris, the Director of Pathway Plumbing Services. 

Photos by Tanarly Hood/Captured by Tanarly 

DiG has evolved over the years since being launched in 2009. 

There has been an increasing focus in recent years on celebrating the positive economic impact of Aboriginal entrepreneurs and businesses on the regional community, and creating pathways for training, employment, leadership and business growth. 

Working toward those goals, DiG this year featured a number of workshops and panel discussions with experienced Aboriginal business leaders offering guidance and support to businesspeople at all stages of their journeys, or those community members thinking about starting a business. 

Away from all the business talk, the Cultural Connect Dance Group took to the stage and put on a deadly performance of cultural dance. 

Adrian (Ringo) Morgan showed people how to carve emu eggs, and Kylie and Susan from Corringle Creators demonstrated basket weaving. 

Alice Pepper, who is the co-chair of GLaWAC’s Board of Directors but was also at DiG in her capacity as the owner of Peppers Community Arts and Cultural Services, said there was always a real buzz in the room when creative and hardworking mob get together. 

“We’re showcasing our Blak Excellence, and that’s a powerful experience,” Alice said. 

“What I hear from business owners at DiG is that the networking opportunities are really important, and they get to meet clients and potential clients, which is great.” 

“The other thing is just the good feeling of being together, as a community, and representing ourselves and what we can do to the broader public.”  

Thank you to everyone who showed up, stood up, lent a hand or helped out in any way. 

Also a huge thank you to the Deadly in Gippsland sponsors – Wellington Shire Council, Indigenous Business Australia, Orsted, Southerly Ten, Iberdrola Australia and Blue Mackerel. 

Deadly things like Deadly in Gippsland don’t happen without you.