On Thursday, key figures and community members gathered in Derby to celebrate the opening of the Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation’s (WAC) new $4 million headquarters. Situated close to the traditional lands of the Ngarinyin people, the new facility marks a significant step forward in WAC’s mission to protect and promote the cultural heritage and interests of the Ngarinyin community. Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation Celebrates $4 Million Headquarters in Derby
Covering more than 63,000 square kilometers in Western Australia’s eastern Kimberley region, WAC’s operations require a dedicated space to effectively manage and safeguard Ngarinyin Country. The new headquarters provide just that—a fit-for-purpose facility essential to the organization’s ongoing efforts to preserve the cultural and natural heritage of the region.
WAC board chair Nelson O’Reeri emphasized the importance of the new headquarters, noting its role in strengthening the community’s connection to their heritage. “These new headquarters represent more than just a building for us—it is a place where our community can come together,” he said. “It’s a foundation for our growth and a testament to our enduring connection to our land and culture.”
Thursday’s milestone event included a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony, underscoring the cultural significance of the new facility. The acquisition of the property was made possible with the support of a $1 million contribution from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC), which aligns with WAC’s commitment to safeguarding and restoring cultural heritage.
The new headquarters span over 2,000 square meters and accommodate 24 staff members, 18 of whom are Indigenous. This space enhances WAC’s capacity to manage and preserve Ngarinyin Country while providing room for the organization to grow in the future.
ILSC Group CEO Joe Morrison praised the new facility, highlighting its role in ensuring the sustainability of Indigenous culture and traditions. “We are driven by the fundamental importance of supporting Indigenous communities in their efforts to preserve culture and manage Country,” he said. “Seeing WAC’s new headquarters in the flesh gives you an understanding that this is not just about the building itself, but about what it represents to the Ngarinyin people, in their journey towards self-determination.”
As WAC continues its vital work in the eastern Kimberley region, the new headquarters stand as a symbol of the Ngarinyin people’s resilience, cultural pride, and commitment to preserving their heritage for future generations.
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Source: https://nit.com.au/15-08-2024/13120/new-4m-home-helping-preserve-ngarinyin-culture
