Driving Positive Change Through What We Do Best
Baynyi Group is a proudly Indigenous-owned and operated business, registered with Supply Nation and is a member of NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce.
Baynyi Group takes its name from the Kamilaroi language, meaning ‘ripple’. Understanding that a small action can have a wide and profound impact, Baynyi Group aims to create a ripple effect throughout Australia by investing in initiatives that enrich the lives of Indigineous people and their communities.
By delivering trusted insurance solutions and supplying and sourcing quality products, we’ve built a strong Indigenous-owned business that delivers real value to our customers. The income we generate supports our Indigenous Participation Plan and our ongoing collaboration with the Baynyi Foundation.
The Symbolism of the Dragonfly
In Aboriginal culture, the Dragonfly is a powerful symbol of transformation, movement and connection – qualities that are at the core of our business and the impact we strive to make.
The Dragonfly represents our journey: transforming opportunities into outcomes, creating movement through action and building strong connections between business and Indigenous communities.
Owner & CEO
Gema Simon
Gema Simon is a proud Gumbaynggirr woman born in Armidale (Anaiwan country) and grew up in Newcastle on Awabakal land. Gema is an 11-time capped Matilda (Australian Women’s National football team) and has represented Australia at the 2019 World Cup in France.
As owner and CEO of the Baynyi Group, Gema is now dedicating the next phase of her professional life to creating a sustainable Indigenous business that makes a real and measurable difference in Indigenous communities.
“With the right guidance and values, there’s a place for everyone to grow and succeed.”
Matthew Bone
Matthew brings over 25 years of experience across service, development and management roles within global and national insurance companies and brokerages in New Zealand and Australia. His experience spans a diverse range of industry sectors and professions with a focus on providing tailored insurance advice and solutions for clients.
Matthew is an Authorised Representative of Ausure Pty Ltd and maintains strong relationships with local and international insurance markets.
James Blair
James brings over two decades of executive leadership experience across insurance, finance, and construction. He has held senior roles with ASX-listed companies and not-for-profits, specialising in commercial strategy, contract negotiation and national distribution.
James has also built and scaled two successful businesses by delivering practical, value-for-money solutions – earning a reputation for outcomes that benefit both clients and partners.
Scott van Epen
Scott has founded and managed multiple businesses that specialise in product procurement and manufacturing for sectors including Health, Mining, and Defence.
As a business owner with firsthand experience, he understands the importance of reliable partnerships. Prior to entrepreneurship, Scott held senior leadership roles in Strategy and Human Resources, which gives him a broad, people-first perspective that strengthens Baynyi’s advisory capabilities.
