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11/07/2025

People News Update

As we share the final story in our Days of Empowerment campaign for NAIDOC Week, we meet Liam Whiteman—a proud Wiradjuri man whose journey of rediscovery and resilience reminds us that identity is something we can reclaim and pass on.

Liam’s connection to his Wiradjuri heritage wasn’t something he grew up with — it was something he had to uncover. In high school, his mum began researching their family history and discovered that Liam’s great-grandmother had been part of the Stolen Generations. His grandmother, raised in a time of silence and fear, was told never to speak about her culture.

“I was proud to be Aboriginal, but I felt like an imposter who didn’t belong, with white skin and no knowledge of my cultural background.”

That moment of discovery was both powerful and confronting. It sparked a personal journey of identity and reconnection. Liam made a promise to himself: his children would grow up knowing who they are and where they come from.

“I’m committed to making sure my children don’t feel the same disconnection. I do my best to help them stay connected to their heritage and be proud of where they come from.”

Liam’s professional journey began in 2014 with an electrical apprenticeship through Electrogroup. He gained hands-on experience working on major projects like Warringah Mall, Royal North Shore Hospital, and Pacific Bondi with Star Group. In 2018, he transitioned into the Estimating department, where he now leads as a Senior Estimator in the E&I division, tendering large-scale projects across NSW.

“It’s been a journey of growth and opportunity. I've worked hard to build a career I’m proud of, and I’m grateful for the chances I’ve had to keep moving forward.”


As NAIDOC Week celebrates Strength, Vision and Legacy, Liam’s story is a powerful reflection of all three. He’s not only built a successful career—he’s reclaiming a cultural legacy that was nearly lost, and ensuring it lives on through his children.