Local farm strengthens Indigenous employment

An Indigenous livestock farm North of West Wyalong, in the Bland Shire region of western New South Wales, is on track to strengthen employment and training prospects for First Nations youths.

Managed by the Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation (WCC), Galari Farm is a proudly Aboriginal-led enterprise, delivering real opportunities for Wiradjuri people in the agricultural sector.

Galari has recently undergone several property and infrastructure improvements following a funding injection of more than $550,000 from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC).

With this funding, WCC has purchased a range of new farming equipment to assist with the sheep, wool and cattle production on its 3,000 acres of land, located on Wiradjuri Country.

These tools have empowered WCC to improve their operations and enhance their ability to care for Country, in turn, supporting them to secure further access to the region’s agricultural lands.

Galari, meaning “connections to the Lachlan River" in Wiradjuri language, is more than just a farm, it is a stepping stone for Indigenous youths.

Whether through fencing, land management, or animal farming, Galari supports its participants to create a legacy of independence, pride, and opportunity.

Through the program, participants can secure hands-on skills in agricultural related industries – this includes assisting trainees to complete their Certificate III in Agriculture.

Galari Farm Manager Mathew Kendall and Farm Mentor Shaune Swadling said Galari has become a place of belonging, growth, and reconnection — where culture, Country, and community come together.

“Our trainees have gained valuable skills in land management, horticulture and sustainable farming practices, while building confidence, discipline and pride in who they are and where they come from.

“Galari Farm has given them purpose and direction, creating pathways into employment and strengthening their cultural identity.

We’ve witnessed firsthand how this environment has helped young people overcome challenges, build resilience, and develop a sense of responsibility — not only to their work but also to their community.

“Galari Farm continues to stand as a place of healing, opportunity, and empowerment for our Indigenous youth, and its impact will continue to be felt for generations to come,” said Mr Kendall and Mr Swadling.

ILSC Group Chief Executive Officer Joe Morrison echoed these comments, noting how Galari Farm is a true reflection of First Nations peoples’ sustained and profound connection to Country.

“This project showcases how Indigenous people can successfully grow the value and productivity of Country, while preserving and protecting their culture.

“The ILSC was proud to provide funding to WCC, which will ultimately help grow agricultural job opportunities in the Wiradjuri community.

“By investing in Indigenous youths and their futures, we can foster positive change for decades,” said Mr Morrison.\ 

As Galari Farm grows, WCC will continue to reinforce its long-term vision of building a sustainable, culturally grounded farming enterprise that benefits the wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.