The opening of the new IBIS Bamaga is one of the 2023-24 financial year highlights remote supermarket operator CEQ is celebrating. Photo: Supplied.
Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) is celebrating several significant milestones and achievements notched up during the 2023-2024 financial year the remote supermarket operator says reflect its commitment to an organisational vision of “Caring, every day, always”.
CEQ board chairperson Joann Schmider said the organisation’s commitment to supporting remote Cape York and Torres Strait communities had been evident more than ever during the previous financial year.
“At CEQ, we are deeply committed to ensuring that cost of living remains at the heart of our decisions,” Ms Schmider said.
CEQ has redefined its community reinvestment strategy through its Good Pasin (give back) program, which has become a cornerstone of its efforts to support the communities in which it operates.
Over the past 12 months, CEQ provided $642,000 in financial and in-kind assistance to not-for-profit organisations and individuals across various communities, including help during Sorry Business to ensure families could focus on grieving without worrying about an additional financial burden.
“It’s not just about financial support; it’s about fostering connections, preserving culture, and contributing to the overall wellbeing of our communities,” Ms Schmider said.
The Good Pasin program also allowed CEQ to throw its weight behind a range of community success stories including junior sporting events, rodeos, festivals and cultural celebrations.
“The value of these events goes beyond financial support,” Ms Schmider said.
“They are an opportunity for our team to engage directly with community members, share knowledge, and contribute to cultural preservation.”
In terms of operational footprint, CEQ is also celebrating expanding its network by three stores during the 2023-24 reporting period – ABIS Wujal Wujal, IBIS Mapoon, and IBIS Kirriri – in addition to opening the new IBIS Bamaga.
