Regional Economic Solutions

24/04/2026

On 25 April 1915, ANZAC troops landed at Gallipoli, a day that shaped our national identities.

Today we honour the courage, sacrifice, and spirit of the Australian and New Zealand service men and women who have served and continue to serve.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

Lest we forget.

13/02/2026

Today, we remember.

On 13 February 2008, Australia took an important step toward truth and healing with the National Apology to the Stolen Generations by then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. We honour the strength, resilience, and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and acknowledge the deep hurt caused by past policies.

Reconciliation is not a single day, it is a shared journey we walk together, with respect, understanding, and action.

29/01/2026

We are proud to have our Executive Director, Leann Wilson, sharing her story at the Zonta Rockhampton International Women’s Day Breakfast on Friday 6 March 2026.

Be inspired, connect, and celebrate women in leadership.

Tickets are available at https://events.humanitix.com/zonta-rockhampton-iwd-breakfast.

18/12/2025

As part of the Regional Economic Solutions team developing our Cultural Agility program with additional content, this week the team were hosted by the First Nations Strategy Team at the Queensland State Archives. We are grateful seeing archival material first hand and learn how to search the online database for content about our State's history of administration of First Nations Peoples.

If you would like to discuss how we can deliver our Cultural Agility program to your organisation or team, please do not hesitate reach out and have a yarn.

17/12/2025

With 2025 coming to a close, we reflect on a year enriched by collaboration and shared achievements. We sincerely thank you for your support in co-designing initiatives that empower First Nations communities.

Best wishes for a joyful holiday season and a successful year ahead.

Leann, Mal, Ivan, Jeremy, Jaxon and Angela 🎄

07/12/2025

Leann Wilson moves to Executive Director role as Dr Ivan Ingram appointed Managing Director

After 13 years at the helm of Regional Economic Solutions (RES), Leann Wilson is transitioning to a new role as the company enters an exciting phase of growth and innovation. Ms Wilson, a proud Bidjara, Kara Kara, and South Sea Islander woman from Barcaldine in Central Queensland, co-founded RES with Mal Meninga AM to bring the wisdom and knowledge of First Nations Peoples into the private sector, building on her extensive experience across public service, community leadership, and Indigenous economic development.

Under Ms Wilson’s leadership, RES has experienced phenomenal growth and contributed to meaningful outcomes across multiple sectors. As the business moves into its next chapter, Ms Wilson will step into the role of Executive Director of Business Development and Innovation, continuing to drive strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.

“Leann has been the driving force behind RES, building this organisation from the ground up with unwavering commitment to First Nations economic sovereignty,” said Mr Mal Meninga AM. “Her ability to navigate complex relationships between government, business, and community has set a new standard for what First Nations leadership looks like in the private sector. As we move forward, Leann’s continued involvement ensures we stay true to the principles we founded this business on.”

“Leann’s leadership in establishing Regional Economic Solutions as a majority-owned First Nations business has shown that when you invest in good people and build on the right values, you create something truly sustainable,” said Mr Zimi Meka, CEO of Ausenco. “Our partnership with RES proves that genuine engagement with First Nations communities creates better outcomes for everyone and we’re excited to continue supporting this next phase of growth.”

“Leading RES has been one of the great opportunities of my professional life,” Ms Wilson said. “We’ve proven that First Nations businesses can operate at the highest levels while staying true to our cultural values and commitment to community. The time is right to bring in new leadership to build on what we’ve achieved.”

Ms Wilson is proud to announce that the new Managing Director for RES will be long-term associate Dr Ivan Ingram, a Wiradjuri and Filipino man from Parkes, New South Wales. Dr Ingram served as the first Indigenous person appointed to the role of Judicial Registrar with the Federal Court of Australia and was one of the five Members of the Queensland Truth-Telling and Healing Inquiry.

Dr Ingram commenced in the Managing Director role on 17 November 2025.

Please visit the RES website to access the full media statement, https://regionaleconomicsolutions.com/news/leann-wilson-moves-to-executive-director-role-as-dr-ivan-ingram-appointed-managing-director/.

10/11/2025

Today is Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion of national reflection. At 11.00am, we will pause for a minute’s silence to honour the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who gave their lives in defence of Australia and its allies across wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.

Their legacy lives on in our freedom, and their memory endures in our hearts.

29/10/2025

Exciting employment opportunities are now available with the Queensland Indigenous Business Network.

Learn more or apply here: https://info.qibn.com.au/hub-coordinator-job-post

📣 There are only two weeks left to apply for one of our Indigenous Business Hub Coordinator roles in Cairns and Townsville!

These positions will help drive local engagement, support Indigenous businesses in their journey, and strengthen community and industry connections across North Queensland.

If you’re passionate about empowering Indigenous business and creating meaningful impact in your region, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Apply now: https://info.qibn.com.au/hub-coordinator-job-post

11/09/2025

10/09/2025

Ask your mob, in your way, R U OK?

Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:

1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in

24/08/2025

🌺 Celebrating recognition of Australian South Sea Islanders

This year, we honour the enduring legacy, resilience, and cultural pride of Australian South Sea Islanders.

📅 On 25 August 1994, the Australian Government formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group, acknowledging a painful history of blackbirding, exploitation, and discrimination. This landmark moment marked a turning point in the nation’s story, affirming the unique identity and contributions of the community.

📅 On 7 September 2000, the Queensland Government echoed this recognition with a formal Recognition Statement, celebrating the community’s vital role in shaping the state’s social and economic foundations. The Recognition Statement acknowledges the injustices and exploitation faced by Australian South Sea Islanders, as well as their significant contributions to the economic, cultural and social development of Queensland.

As we mark these milestones, we remember and celebrate our families, community, culture, and the strength of generations who continue to shape Queensland and Australia.