Emma Garlett: Think outside the box with First Nations Christmas gift ideas

It is December already and gift giving season is well and truly upon us. Everywhere you look the Christmas spirit is in full swing. The Moodjar, also known as the Western Australian Christmas trees are in bloom, showcasing their spectacular orange flowers across Perth. For many it is a time to unwind and enjoy time at the beach or bevvies and banter with friends. Others are already preparing for a quintessential Australian summer Christmas with cricket, barbecues, swimming, and the classic pavlova to end the day. While Christmas is a joyous time, some do not have a family or the means to celebrate Christmas in the way they might like due to cost-of-living pressures. It is important to ensure this time of year is inclusive for all and a celebration which connects us. Many of us are strapped for cash and it is important to ensure your hard-earned dollar goes far. How you choose to spend it will make a big difference. It is easy to pop down to the local shopping centre to spend your money on whatever you see in the shop window, but a little thought goes a long way and many small businesses will thank you if you buy your gifts from them. Some great present ideas this year include purchasing sustainable products from First Nations businesses or buying gift cards for services to redeem throughout the next year. If you prefer to give experiences rather than material gifts, there are many cultural tours in Perth which you could book. Nyungar Tours owned and operated by Kerry-Ann Winmar will take you on a journey of cultural discovery and operate in Kings Park and South Perth. If Elizabeth Quay is easier for you then you can’t go past GoCultural Aboriginal Tours and Experiences which include tours of Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) by owner and operator Walter McGuire. If you like Aesop, then you will love Jalbi, an Indigenous owned brand specialising in using native ingredients in their product range, which includes body wash, pillow spray, body mist and hand poured soy candles. I’d encourage you to buy books by Indigenous authors. There are many titles across numerous genres to choose from including children’s books, fantasy, autobiographies and more. If you’re a corporate and looking at ideas to give to your employees, then Gather Foods offer various gift hampers which can be purchased online. Remember, gifts, while they are a nice symbol to show your appreciation, can also be a way to educate, inspire and help others. There are many ways you can support a sustainable business environment through responsible purchasing while supporting local businesses. First Nations products are great, thoughtful and unique gifts, but they are also popular so get in quick before they sell out.