In the vibrant tapestry of Australia’s Aboriginal and Business Community, Gordon Cole stands tall as a beacon of leadership and inspiration. A Noongar man from Perth and the South West of WA, Gordon’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and a profound commitment to his community.
Gordon Cole’s story is not just about his personal achievements, but a narrative of empowering an entire community. With over two decades of experience in business and government, Gordon has walked the corridors of agencies like Australia Post, Aboriginal Affairs, Child Protection, Community Development, and Justice. However, it was his deep-seated dedication to social enterprise that set him on a path of transformative change.
His involvement in various local community-controlled organisations speaks volumes about his commitment to grassroots initiatives. Gordon’s vision of a thriving Noongar Nation led him to establish the Noongar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) in Perth. This organisation became the cornerstone for building capacity and adding value to local, state, national, and international service contracts, ensuring a sustainable future for Noongar businesses.
Gordon’s accolades are a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. His venture, Cole Workwear Pty Ltd, received the prestigious “Business of the Year” award at the 2013 BHP Billiton NAIDOC Perth Awards. Additionally, his dedication to fostering partnerships and collaboration was recognised through the “Supplier to Supplier Partnership” award in 2014 and 2016 from Supply Nation.
One of the most significant feathers in Gordon’s cap is his position on the National NAIDOC Committee. This pivotal role not only showcases his leadership but also underscores his dedication to the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. His active involvement in shaping the direction of NAIDOC celebrations at the national level reflects his commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Australians.
“I am extremely passionate about ensuring that NAIDOC Week celebrations not only continue to highlight and celebrate the outstanding achievements of my people, but also continue the spirit of those who established the Day of Mourning back in 1938,” Gordon passionately asserts.
But Gordon’s journey is more than just business acumen; it’s about leadership. His philosophy is simple yet profound: have a vision, formulate a plan, and surround yourself with good people. Consistency, honesty, passion, empathy, and a strong work ethic are the cornerstones of his leadership style.
Gordon’s dedication goes beyond boardrooms and business meetings. He invests his time in understanding his culture, heritage, and the struggles his community has faced due to colonisation. His deep understanding of the past fuels his drive to secure a better future for his people.
When asked about his inspiration, Gordon humbly points to his old people, his children, and the impact of colonisation on his community. These factors have not only driven him to be better educated but have also motivated him to transform his physical and spiritual well-being.
In the tapestry of Gordon Cole’s life, there are threads of determination, leadership, and a profound love for his community. His journey inspires us to be better, to learn from our past, and to work together for a future where every community member thrives. As he continues to tread the path of empowerment, Gordon’s legacy is not just in the businesses he builds but in the lives he touches and the community he strengthens.
