Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1544721
tinuing to build a culturally safe and welcoming space for everyone who walks through our doors. Through authentic storytelling, art, food and experiences, we want delegates to connect with the richness of First Nations cultures, and we want our industry to see reconciliation as something we do, not just something we say." The Centre sits between two UNESCO World Heritage sites and within a region that is home to 18 First Nations groups, making cultural engagement central to its identity and a natural priority in its role as host of national and inter- national conferences. Professor Henrietta Marrie said the RAP reflects the importance of working together in ways that are genuine, respectful and grounded in place. "This Innovate RAP is an opportunity to continue building a strong relationship based on listening, truth telling and respect for Country and culture," he continued. "When an organization like the Cairns Convention Centre commits to reconciliation in practical ways, through employment, partnerships, cul- tural safety and the stories shared with visitors, it helps create a more informed and respectful meeting place. It also creates opportunities for First Nations voices, knowl- edge and businesses to be part of how people connect here." The Innovate RAP sets out 17 actions and 82 deliver- ables across Relationships, Respect, Opportunities and Governance. Initiatives include: • Cultural awareness training for staff • Development of a First Nations inspired menu in part- nership with Professor Henrietta Marrie • Increase bush medicine plants in the Centre's garden • Promoting First Nations stories through digital plat- forms and event programming • Procurement strategies designed to increase engage- ment with First Nations suppliers • Partnering with First Nations owned businesses for delegate and speaker gifts, and promoting First Nations tours and experiences The RAP is championed by General Manager Janet Hamilton and supported by a dedicated Reconciliation Working Group (RWG). The Centre's RAP is supported through symbolic repre- sentation in its commissioned artwork, Reef Connect- ions by local First Nations artist Elverina Johnson, which celebrates deep cultural connections to land and sea. The artwork reflects the connection between the ocean, reef, mangroves and land for First Nations peoples, particularly the Gungganji and Yidinji people of Yarrabah and Cairns. Stories of hunting and gathering on the reef have been passed down through generations, reflecting how the sea sustains life. The reef is the breath of the ocean, flowing from the sea to the rainforest. We must look after the reef as it looks after us. Everything is connected and has its place. The commissioned artwork is displayed in the main entry foyer of the Cairns Convention Centre. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY We acknowledge the Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji Peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Cairns Convention Centre stands. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and to future leaders. We extend that respect to all First Nations People who visit our Centre. ABOUT CAIRNS CONVENTION CENTRE The Cairns Convention Centre is a world-class, purpose- built venue located in the heart of tropical North Queensland, Australia, on the cusp of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Constructed in 1995 and with several refurbishments and expansions over the years, the vast, modern Centre features a 2,300-seat auditorium, a 5,000-seat arena, 440-seat plena- ry, 23 breakout meeting rooms, a ballroom for up to 500 guests and an outdoor terrace with breathtaking views over Trinity Inlet. Supported by a passionate team of industry professionals, the Centre plays host to numerous large-scale events, from international association conferences to domestic NBL games. It also is actively engaged in the community, working closely with local experts and indigenous leaders and support- ing a range of local not-for-profits. It is managed by Legends Global, the world's leading venue management company. For more information, visit Cairns Convention Centre or connect on: LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. B M & T ••• May/June 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 7 IN THE NEWS