Building strong foundations for community-led growth
Located on Antakirinja Matu-Yunkunytjatjara Country in Coober Pedy, South Australia, Umoona Community Council is a proud Aboriginal organisation leading local services and enterprises in one of Australia’s most remote desert towns.
Through the Many Rivers Community Economic Development (CED) Program, Umoona has strengthened its governance, grown community businesses, and built pathways to long-term economic independence.
Meet Umoona Community Council
First established in 1975, Umoona Community Council represents the interests of the local Aboriginal community in Coober Pedy. The Council plays a vital role in community life-delivering services, managing assets, and creating opportunities for employment and cultural enterprise.
When Umoona joined the CED Program in 2020, the organisation was seeking to strengthen its management structure and plan for sustainable economic development. Since then, the partnership with Many Rivers has supported the Council to clarify its goals, expand its business activities, and build confidence in leading community-driven change.
“Many Rivers has been very instrumental in helping myself to navigate all the businesses and four funded programs, and particularly the application for most funding for more programs.”
– Dora, General Manager, Umoona Community Council
Community History
Umoona has long been a centre of cultural and social connection for Aboriginal families living in and around Coober Pedy. Over decades, the community has managed housing, childcare, employment and social programs, often in the face of limited resources and significant logistical challenges.
The Council’s name, Umoona – meaning “long life” – reflects the community’s enduring spirit and commitment to future generations. Today, Umoona remains a strong and respected voice for its people, with a focus on maintaining cultural strength while building economic opportunity.
Community Aspirations
Umoona’s vision is to create meaningful work, celebrate culture, and achieve self-sufficiency through enterprise.
The Council’s strategic goals include:
- Creating employment and training opportunities for local people
- Expanding community enterprises, including Solid Mulga and bush food projects
- Developing tourism ventures such as a café and art gallery co-located with the Umoona Arts Centre
- Managing the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum independently to highlight its Aboriginal ownership and heritage significance
These goals reflect Umoona’s determination to build a thriving local economy grounded in culture, creativity and community pride.
Economic Development Journey
Together with their Many Rivers CED Manager, Umoona Community Council has taken practical steps to strengthen governance and turn ideas into action.
Since joining the program, the Council has:
- Developed a two-year strategic plan to guide decision-making and project priorities
- Secured funding for key initiatives, including a BHP grant to help establish a café alongside the art centre
- Received assistance with lease negotiations for the Umoona Opal Mine
- Gained support applying for six community roles under the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program
- Improved governance processes, with stronger board meetings, financial systems, and reporting
- Transitioned towards self-management, with staff now leading their own grant applications and acquittals
- This journey has been one of learning, leadership and partnership-building the confidence and capability to lead ongoing growth.
Outcomes and Looking Ahead
With solid foundations now in place, Umoona is seeing the results of its efforts. The Council manages a growing portfolio of enterprises and services, including the Umoona Tjintu Service Station, local B&B accommodation, and several government-funded programs that support families, children, and employment.
Looking ahead, Umoona plans to:
- Launch its new café and gallery to attract more visitors
- Grow bush food and cultural tourism projects
- Expand Solid Mulga and other local enterprises
- Continue strengthening community leadership and independence
Umoona’s story is one of resilience, renewal and pride – a community charting its own future, supported by strong partnerships and a clear vision for self-determination.
