Junction Engineering Group: Building opportunity in Cape York

Junction Engineering Group

James Backo and Kirsty Hair founded Junction Engineering Group in 2021 with a vision to build a strong Indigenous-owned business that delivers quality services while creating meaningful employment opportunities across Cape York.

Based in Weipa on Alngith Country, Junction Engineering Group provides maintenance, construction and specialised services to the mining, infrastructure and industrial sectors throughout Far North Queensland. Proudly an Indigenous-owned, Junction combines technical expertise with a commitment to developing local capability and supporting regional communities.

James Backo is from Warrgamay Country and the Kulkalgal people of the Central Torres Strait, while Kirsty Hair is Yamaji Wajarri from mid-west Western Australia. Together, they have built a business focused on creating long-term opportunities for Indigenous and local people.

Benefits beyond business

As part of Indigenous Business Month, James says engaging with Indigenous businesses offers benefits that extend beyond the work itself.

"Indigenous businesses bring strong local knowledge, capable people and meaningful connections to the communities in which they operate. When partnerships are built for the long term, everyone benefits." James said.

“At Junction Engineering Group, we're proud that the work we deliver not only supports our clients' operations, but also creates local employment, develops skills and provides opportunities for the next generation.”

Looking forward

Junction Engineering Group aims to become an Industry leading contractor in Far North Queensland, creating sustainable employment, developing skills and opening pathways for future generations.

“Success isn’t just about building a bigger business; it’s about what we can build around it. We want to create meaningful employment, develop local skills and give young Australians the opportunity to build real careers without feeling they have to leave their community to find them.

If we can train an apprentice, give a young person their first opportunity, develop someone into a leader, or create a career that allows a family to stay and build their future here, then we are creating something that will last well beyond any individual project".

Through its growth, Junction Engineering Group is creating opportunities today, building capability for tomorrow, and leaving a stronger legacy for the next generation.