Over the past 14 years, we at Terra Rosa have achieved some amazing milestones. Here are some of the highlights of our journey that demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, cultural preservation, community engagement, and innovation.

Becoming Carbon Neutral

In March 2024, we proudly achieved carbon neutrality, a whole year ahead of schedule. Here’s how we did it:

• Biodiversity Credits: We bought carbon offsets to balance out our high-emission activities like flights and electricity use.
• Green Office Processes: As a Certified Climate Clever Business, we reduce resource usage and waste. We promote recycling, use reusable coffee cups, and encourage staff to bring their own water bottles and lunch containers.
• Energy Efficiency & Travel Reduction: We’re installing solar panels, retrofitting our office for better insulation, and streamlining travel logistics. These efforts have helped us achieve carbon neutrality, and now we’re working towards becoming carbon positive.

 

Expanding Our Footprint

A few years back we moved to a new office space that we like to call ‘The Shed’ on Wood St, which some of our employees helped to build. While it has been cherished, our team has grown so quickly that we’re already moving to a new office just around the corner. This new space offers more room for staff, additional meeting spaces, and a better layout for our evolving company structure.

Nullagine Arts Trip

For the past 10 years, we’ve been working with the Irrungadji women to run arts programs in Nullagine. These programs provide mentorship opportunities for junior artists and help transmit cultural knowledge. The event is a great way for the community to come together and the paintings are later presented to those attending and then what comes of the paintings is decided by the Irrungadji women.

Heritage Awards and Archaeological Dig

In October 2023, we, along with the City of Rockingham and Element Advisory, received a commendation at the Western Australian Heritage Awards for our work on the Rockingham archaeological dig project. The project involved a three-day public dig at the Peelhurst ruins, uncovering artefacts like a one shilling coin from 1880 and intact bottles from the early 20th century. This collaboration engaged the local community in their heritage and highlighted the significance of the Peelhurst Ruins.

Bilby Conservation Program

We’ve been part of a bilby conservation project at Tharra Karnparnmana Aboriginal Reserve. This project will inform long-term management actions to protect this endangered species.

On Country Academy

Since 2017, we’ve been assisting indigenous ranger training programs that have awarded many students with ranger accreditation. In 2024, we began establishing a fully formed registered training organisation, offering three main course streams and various short courses. Launching this program, On Country Academy, will allow us to assist in building the capacity within communities we already work with and allow new clients to develop skills that can further their careers, assist their community and help them care for their country.

Enhancing Workplace Safety

We’ve seen a 25% decrease in WHS incidents in 2024. This is thanks to hiring a WHS manager and implementing new safety response plans. We use MacTrackers in all our vehicles, hold regular toolbox meetings, and update our policies and procedures to ensure a safer work environment.

Marlinyu Ghoorlie Partnership

Our partnership with Marlinyu Ghoorlie has been incredibly successful, allowing us to support MG through not only the continually management of heritage, but also the submission of their Native Title Claim and the development of Marlinyu Ghoorlie Aboriginal Corporation. Terra Rosa has supported MGAC to grow their capacity enormously in the last few years.

Growing Our Team

Our team has grown significantly, reaching a total of 86 employees across Australia and internationally. With 32 new staff members joining in 2024, we’re expanding our presence and capabilities. This growth reflects our increasing impact and the development of our company within the heritage industry.

Recognition at Business Awards

We were honoured to win the award for Excellence in Professional and Service Industries at the 2021 Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. In 2023, we were nominated as finalists, which highlights our ongoing efforts and we were so thankful to have received these awards/ nominations.

 

Enhancing Our Work Environment

We’re committed to creating a healthy and inclusive work environment. Our new People and Culture Committee focuses on celebrating staff birthdays and events, managing mental health, and implementing our company values. We’re also improving our onboarding process for new staff to ensure a smooth transition into our team. These efforts are designed to foster a positive and supportive workplace culture.