A First Nations organisation that started with a simple goal of helping communities in the Central-West Orana has grown into a thriving business employing 12 local Aboriginal staff and creating pathways for the next generation.
Founded by local Wiradjuri man Jeff Amatto, Yindyamarra Landcare and Maintenance is a Wellington-based business providing land care, grounds maintenance and property services while creating employment opportunities for Aboriginal people.
Yindyamarra Landcare and Maintenance was born out of Mr Amatto’s, More Cultural Rehabs Less Jails’ Yindyamarra Healing Men’s Group.
The initial goal of the business was to provide meaningful local employment opportunities while improving and maintaining the land in Wellington and Dubbo.
“We started Yindyamarra Landcare and Maintenance two years ago as a way for local men to give back to the community through free lawn services,” Mr Amatto said.
Mr Amatto said the impact of his business on the region had since been “massive”.
“We have men stepping up in the community for their families and mob, giving others a path to follow.”
Working with Squadron Energy
Squadron Energy contracted the organisation to undertake lawn maintenance and land care work at Bellhaven, a former nursing home in Wellington.
Squadron Energy leased Bellhaven and redeveloped the former nursing home into temporary accommodation for workers constructing the nearby Uungula Wind Farm.
Local Indigenous businesses including Yindyamarra Landcare and Maintenance and Tyecon played key roles in revitalising the facility and surrounding grounds.
“Bellhaven is our favourite work site,” Mr Amatto said.
“We get up there every three weeks and mingle with the residents.”
Squadron Energy First Nations Engagement Facilitator Justin Toomey-White helped connect Yindyamarra Landcare and Maintenance with opportunities to support the Bellhaven project.
Mr Amatto said his organisation had developed a great partnership with Squadron Energy over the years.
“It’s fair to say Squadron has been really good to work with and has provided opportunities for the men in Wellington.”
As a First Nations-owned business with strong cultural connections to the region, Mr Amatto said Yindyamarra’s connection to Country plays an important role in the way the team delivers land care and maintenance services.
“We take pride in our work and maintenance on our Country,” he said.
“It makes it that much sweeter knowing we are spiritually connected to the country we are working on.
“Our goal is to secure more work and create a work experience program for young people leaving school, particularly young people who may be struggling to find a pathway into employment.”
Yindyamarra Landcare and Maintenance provides services to community members, businesses, aged care providers, NDIS providers and organisations within the Wellington and Dubbo region.