Gibbos News

Gibson Farmer (Gibbo)

Gibbo is a senior Traditional Owner on the Tiwi islands and works as our Tiwi Liaison Officer.  Gibbo has a long history working in forestry and natural land management.  In his role as Liaison officer Gibbo writes a monthly newsletter that he distributes to keep everyone up to date with recent events on Tiwi Islands.

Gibbo went to school at Milikapiti Primary school before attending boarding school in Mackay in north Queensland.  He then subsequently returned to the Northern Territory and attended in Kormilda College and Casuarina High School, fondly recalling important subjects being Mathematics, Science and English.

After graduating from High School, Gibbo worked on the forestry project with the Conservation Commission on Melville Island for 11 years.  Gibbo was elected as Chairman of the Milikapiti Community Government Council from 1995 to 2003. With roles in both the building industry and medical liaison, he eventually joined the Forestry team based at Maxwell Creek. Gibbo is a key member of our Team.

A brief interview with Gibbo.

Q: What do you think it takes to get a good job?

Gibbo:
- First go to school every day, and learn properly
- Get family support/strong family relationships
- To be honest
- Be smart
- Know what the job is about

Q: What vision do you have for the Tiwi youth?

Gibbo:
My vision for Tiwi youth is get good education first and then get a good job.  Because I work in Forestry plantations I would like to see young people look after our land and develop strong families, live better lives with strong culture.  Good relationships with non Tiwi staff.