Lola Daylight, Lisa Law and Steltone Britcher prepare to welcome the first Wujal Wujal residents into the new store on 7 June. Photo: Supplied.
Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) has held an emotional grand opening of its new ABIS store in Wujal Wujal as part of a special healing day event in the community on 7 June.
Prior to the devasting floods which displaced the community in December 2023, CEQ was preparing to operate the previously Council-leased convenience store, however, following a collaboration between CEQ, Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council and residents, a brand new store – Wujal Bayan Mayiji – has now opened its doors.
CEQ board chairperson Joann Schmider said CEQ was proud to contribute within the Wujal Wujal community as part of the its ongoing recovery following last year’s evacuation.
“The opening of Wujal Bayan Mayiji marks a significant step in the ongoing recovery and healing process for Wujal Wujal, and marks a momentous occasion for the local community,” Ms Schmider said.
“It provides essential goods and services, supporting the community as they rebuild their lives.
“Our now publicly broadcasted commitment is to listen to the community’s feedback, and to be responsive.
“The opening of the ABIS store also celebrates the partnership between CEQ, Wujal Wujal council and the traditional custodians of Country, represented through Jabalbina Aboriginal Corporation.”
Council Mayor praised stakeholders involved with the collaboration and said the new store meant much more to the community than bricks and mortar.
“This new store symbolises our strength and determination to rebuild and move forward together,” Mayor Gibson explained.
“I’d like to thank the entire CEQ team for their dedication to serving our community and ensuring the delivery and service of food to our residents.”
Three Wujal Wujal residents have already commenced working in the store and are being trained in retail operations, with CEQ chief executive officer Michael Dykes saying the aim was to empower locals.
“We’re a people business embedded into the community, and we’re here to listen, serve and invest in the community, including by supporting residents with enterprise development that brings local jobs,” he said.
“We’re all about community empowerment, employing locals, and encouraging and supporting First Nations businesses to thrive alongside us.”
The Wuja Wujal community turned out in force to celebrate the emotional opening of its new ABIS store. Photo: Supplied.
