About Us
Our Story
A Journey Rooted in Tradition and Innovation
The Beginning: Thalanyji Country and a Childhood in the West Pilbara
My journey began on Thalanyji Country, in the vast and rugged expanse of the West Pilbara. Growing up on a pastoral station, I was immersed in a world where the rich and enduring Aboriginal culture was not just a backdrop, but an integral part of daily life. This unique environment, marked by its majestic landscapes and ancient traditions, offered me an unparalleled insight into a world where nature's every element tells a story.
In this vibrant cultural landscape, I learned the importance of understanding and respecting the intricate connections between people, their heritage, and the environment. These experiences have profoundly shaped my worldview, instilling in me a deep respect for the land, its custodians, and their stories that continue to inspire and guide my path.
Professional Milestones: Fortescue and Beyond
In 2005, my professional journey took a significant turn when I joined Fortescue, starting as the 39th employee. My role as Heritage Superintendent put me at the forefront of coordinating heritage field activities across the vast Pilbara tenements. Being part of the original leadership team, I witnessed and contributed to Fortescue's transformation from an exploration hopeful to the world's fourth-largest iron ore producer.
My tenure with Fortescue was a period of immense growth and learning. In 2017, Andrew and Nicola Forrest recognised my contributions and offered me an opportunity in their private businesses, starting with the Minderoo Foundation and Generation One, and later transitioning into Tattarang and the Harvest Road Group within their agribusiness arm.
Launching Arru: A New Chapter Begins
In July 2023, after almost 20 years of diverse experiences and invaluable lessons learned working with the Forrest’s, I embraced a new challenge. I took a voluntary redundancy and launched Arru. Arru represents the culmination of my experiences, learnings, and a lifelong commitment to respecting and understanding the intricate tapestry of Aboriginal cultural..
Arru is not just a consulting business; it is a testament to a journey that started in the heart of the West Pilbara’s Thalanyji Country. It's an embodiment of the wisdom of the land and the enduring stories that have shaped me. At Arru, we bring a unique perspective to consulting, one that is deeply rooted in respect for cultural heritage and driven by the goal of creating sustainable and meaningful impacts.
Our Approach
We understand that every engagement is unique. Our approach is never one size-fits-all; it’s a harmonious blend of sensitivity and adaptability.
We are skilled at navigating language barriers and the cultural nuances that shape interactions and discussions, ensuring that conversations are clear, effective, and culturally appropriate.
Our goal is not just facilitating conversations, but fostering enduring partnerships that result in positive social, environmental, and economic outcomes.
We believe in leaving a positive impact on both our clients and the Traditional Owners and communities we work with.
Our Mission
To facilitate meaningful and mutually beneficial connections between our clients and the Traditional Custodians connected to the lands where their projects are located . We understand the importance of acknowledging and respecting Indigenous Australian cultures and traditions and through our expertise we aim to bridge gaps, break down barriers, and nurture relationships built on mutual trust and cooperation.