NewsBite

Indigenous artisan business to open its doors in Toowoomba

Pride, passion and a love for country and art are the reasons behind a family’s decision to open a new indigenous artisan business in the heart of Toowoomba.

Made on Gunggari co-owner Lisa-May Rossington in her new Margaret Street shop. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Made on Gunggari co-owner Lisa-May Rossington in her new Margaret Street shop. Picture: Kevin Farmer

IN JUST two years, Made on Gunggari has grown from market appearances to a “bricks and mortar” business.

The Murri Kamillaroi Kooma family-owned business showcases beautiful handcrafted Indigenous art, jewellery pieces and other items.

“We started out at markets in Bamba Gii markets in Roma and then the Meeanjin Markets in Brisbane,” Lisa-May Rossington said of the venture she started with her sister Natasha.

Made on Gunggari co-owner Lisa-May Rossington.
Made on Gunggari co-owner Lisa-May Rossington.

“We had a lot of interest and support at those markets which was exciting.

“Some of the pieces bought were sent as gifts to people overseas.”

Eager to build on that initial success, Made on Gunggari used the feedback it received in those early days to help shape its future direction.

“A lot of people told us they were not able to get to markets, and others said they didn’t want to buy from a website,” Lisa-May said.

“People want to be able to see, touch and interact with the pieces, which is why we decided to open the store in Toowoomba.”

Countless generations of the family grew up in the Charleville, Mitchell and St George regions and those deep connections inspire the pieces on offer.

The shop also stocks products from other Indigenous creators, including natural soaps by paperbarklove and items from Native Oz Bushfoods.

The store will open to the public on March 12 at 221 Margaret Street.

Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/toowoomba/indigenous-artisan-business-to-open-its-doors-in-toowoomba/news-story/8907058789d460647ef7cb7d0cdbdf3e