Feb 16, 2025, | Veronica Bird | General Manager| BNTAC | www.butchulllantac.org.au
BNTAC Board and Elders Meet with New FCRC CEO Mica Martin
On 12 February 2026, the Board of Directors, Elders and General Manager of the Butchulla Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (BNTAC) had the pleasure of meeting with the new CEO of Fraser Coast Regional Council, Mica Martin.
The meeting was constructive, respectful and forward-looking. From the outset, Ms Martin demonstrated a cooperative and collaborative approach, expressing a genuine commitment to strengthening relationships with BNTAC and embedding “right way relationships” across the Fraser Coast. There was a clear sense that this meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter built on trust, shared purpose and practical action.
A range of topics were discussed, which included, but were not limited to the following:
- Cultural Awareness Training – Leading by Example
- Indigenous Accord for the Fraser Coast
- Looking Toward Brisbane 2032
- Contract Opportunities for the Caring for Country Team
- Supporting NAIDOC and Community Events
- Cultural Heritage – Best Practice on the Ground
- A Shared Commitment Moving Forward
Cultural Awareness Training – Leading by Example
One of the first matters discussed was Cultural Awareness Training for FCRC staff. Encouragingly, Ms Martin expressed willingness to trial an initial session with 10 FCRC staff members. This pilot approach will allow both organisations to co-design a model that reflects Butchulla values, history and contemporary aspirations.
From there, a staged rollout across the Council’s workforce of approximately 1,000 employees could be developed. This is a powerful step toward embedding cultural competency at every level of local government on Butchulla Country (land, sea and sky).
Indigenous Accord for the Fraser Coast
The Board also discussed progressing an Indigenous Accord across the Fraser Coast — one that recognises all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living and working in the region.
An Accord would formalise shared commitments around consultation, procurement, cultural respect, economic participation and long-term partnership. The tone of the meeting reflected alignment in principle, and a willingness to explore how this can be shaped in a way that benefits the community, Council and Butchulla Country.
Looking Toward Brisbane 2032
With the approach of the 2032 Summer Olympics, discussions included how BNTAC might position itself as a host partner, contributing cultural leadership, on-Country experiences and legacy outcomes for Butchulla people.
The Board emphasised that Olympic engagement must be more than symbolic — it should deliver tangible economic, cultural and employment benefits for future generations.
Contract Opportunities for the Caring for Country Team
The BNTAC Caring for Country (C4C) Team continues to build capacity in land and sea management. The meeting explored opportunities for increased contract engagement with Council in areas such as bush regeneration, weed management, cultural site care and environmental restoration.
There was positive discussion about best-value procurement models that recognise Indigenous capability, local knowledge and cultural authority.
Supporting NAIDOC and Community Events
Council’s ongoing support for the NAIDOC Committee, including a $10,000 grant, was acknowledged and welcomed. NAIDOC Week is an important time of celebration, recognition and unity across the Fraser Coast.
The First Light Service held on 26 January 2026 was also discussed as a meaningful cultural event that continues to grow in significance. Ongoing partnership in supporting this service reflects shared respect and a maturing relationship.
Cultural Heritage – Best Practice on the Ground
The Board emphasised the importance of best practice cultural heritage management across all Council works and developments. This includes early engagement, proper consultation and embedding Butchulla knowledge into planning processes from the beginning — not as an afterthought.
There was agreement that cultural heritage protection is strongest when relationships are proactive and solutions focused.
A Dedicated Cultural Precinct and Future Planning
A key aspiration discussed was the establishment of a dedicated Cultural Precinct for Butchulla First Nations people on the Fraser Coast. Such a precinct would provide a space for cultural expression, learning, economic development and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
The Master Development Plan for the “Kitchen” area in Pialba was also raised, with the Board highlighting the importance of ensuring Butchulla perspectives are embedded in its future design and activation.
Signage and Visibility of Butchulla Country (land, sea and sky)
Finally, the Board raised the importance of improved signage across the region acknowledging the Butchulla First Nations people and our enduring connection to Butchulla Country (land, sea and sky).
Visibility matters. Clear and respectful acknowledgement in public spaces reinforces cultural truth, educates visitors and affirms identity for the local community.
A Shared Commitment Moving Forward
The overall tone of the meeting was positive, respectful and solution oriented. The BNTAC Board and Elders left with a strong sense that Ms Martin is committed to building a cooperative partnership grounded in mutual respect.
Relationships built on Country require patience, clarity and goodwill. This meeting demonstrated that all parties are prepared to invest in that journey.
The path ahead is one of collaboration — strengthening governance, expanding opportunity, protecting culture and ensuring that the future of the Fraser Coast is shaped together, in right way relationships with Butchulla people.
As we move forward, BNTAC remains committed to working constructively with Council for the benefit of community, kin, culture and Country.
BNTAC is looking forward to providing more information as these opportunities unfolds.
Kind regards,
Veronica Bird
General Manager – BNTAC