Frederick Cobbo

Frederick Cobbo is a proud Wakka Wakka Traditional Owner with very strong links to the Kabbi Kabbi people, a long‑time community leader based in Cherbourg, where he has lived and served for more than 30 years. He is a Master of Philosophy candidate with the Indigenous Futures Centre at The University of Queensland, with his thesis Taring Dharra (Strong – Black Cockatoo) exploring the role of culture in keeping mob strong, well, and connected. Over his career, Frederick has led significant community‑driven initiatives, including co‑design projects with Education Queensland, the establishment of the Local Education Consultative Board for the Barambah Cluster schools, and the development of the Wakka Wakka Language curriculum at Murgon State High School. He is an experienced researcher, and his research collaborations with UQ and QUT have strengthened youth identity and cultural pride, contributing to historic milestones such as the appointment of the first Aboriginal school captain in Murgon State High School’s 75‑year history, Queensland Investment Co-operation (QIC) reused laptop program for Aboriginal & Torres Strait families in the South Burnett area.

A former elected Councillor for the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council (2020–2024), Frederick has worked across the education, health, and community sectors, including roles with Queensland Health, Education Queensland, CRAICCHS, QUT, and the Stronger Smarter Institute. His work has consistently centred on cultural revitalisation, trauma‑informed practice, social and emotional wellbeing, and strengthening relationships between community and institutions. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Community Management & Development), a Diploma of Education, and a Certificate III in Engineering (Electrical). In his current role as a part-time Community Liaison and Social & Emotional Wellbeing Support Officer with Cherbourg Well-Being Co-operation, and through his postgraduate research at UQ, Frederick remains committed to ensuring Wakka Wakka people—and all Indigenous communities—continue to stand strong, like the Taring Dharra guiding his research.