The Australian Government and the Larrakia Development Corporation have officially opened the new Larrakia Cultural Centre in Darwin today.
The Centre is located on Larrakia Country at Stokes Hill Wharf on the Darwin Waterfront and has been funded by the Aboriginals Benefit Account through a $58.6 million investment.
The new Centre, operated by Larrakia Cultural Centre Limited, offers exhibition and gallery spaces, art studios, a retail shop, café, restaurant and meeting rooms as well as a 450-person capacity amphitheatre.
It will be a place for locals and visitors to learn more about Larrakia culture and history and will also house repatriated cultural items, cared for in accordance with Larrakia cultural protocols.
The design reflects a strong commitment to embedding Larrakia culture, knowledge and identity throughout the building, with Larrakia people actively involved in shaping both its vision and physical expression.
From the architecture and landscape design to the public art, interpretive elements and internal spaces, Larrakia-inspired features are woven throughout the precinct, celebrating Larrakia culture and connection to Country.
Since first opening to the public last month, the Centre has become recognised for its distinctive roof, which resembles a bird in flight. Inspired by a powerful Larrakia ancestral being, the design symbolises the protection of the land and people.
The project supports key outcomes under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap by creating opportunities for meaningful employment, and developing Indigenous owned enterprises, generating lasting economic benefits for Larrakia and the Darwin community.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
“The Albanese Government is proud to support this Larrakia-led initiative, and I commend the Larrakia Development Corporation, and all involved, for bringing the vision to life.
“The result is a truly remarkable space that the Larrakia community and the people of Darwin can be immensely proud of.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling OAM MP:
The Larrakia Cultural Centre is a significant step in the preservation and celebration of Larrakia heritage, and the opening of the Centre realises that achievement.
This project has encouraged economic participation through Indigenous employment and enterprise development setting a great example for other projects around the Territory.
Quotes attributable to Mark Motlop, Chairperson, Larrakia Development Corporation:
“The Larrakia Cultural Centre is something our community can be incredibly proud of and will stand as a lasting home for Larrakia culture on our Country.
“We thank Minister McCarthy and the Australian Government for backing this vision and for the generous contribution that has helped bring this iconic Centre to life.”
Quotes attributable to Helen Garnett, Chairperson, Larrakia Cultural Centre Limited:
“In the short time the doors of this marvellous facility have been open the Centre’s exhibitions, Conversation Series and Makers Workshops have shown the appetite of the broader community to come together and enhance their understanding of Larrakia heritage, culture and creativity.
“We aim to make the Centre an enduring success… one where Larrakia language and culture thrive: a Centre that is globally recognised."