The new offices of the Yorta Yorta Nations Aboriginal Corporation in Northern Victoria are now open, providing a modern, expanded headquarters for the organisation to continue its vital work.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams this week officially opened the new building, which was Aboriginal-led in its conception and delivery, and designed by local Echuca architects.
The new building sits in the bend of the Murray River within the Barmah community, and draws on the natural surrounds to sit sympathetically within the lightly treed area.
The offices will allow the organisation to expand its programs and provide a safe space for Aboriginal residents to connect to culture.
It will provide safe storage for Yorta Yorta’s important archives, documentation of their native title claim, and a collection of cultural artefacts, and give locals greater access to resources.
Elders are also catered for, providing a dedicated space for safety and comfort as they fulfil their community and cultural obligations.
The corporation finished the upgrade works on time and on budget, allowing them to move in despite the coronavirus global pandemic.
The $1.49 million project was funded by the Andrews Labor Government through the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Program, which helps organisations improve the delivery of services, community safety, health and wellbeing, education, cultural connectedness and economic participation among Aboriginal Victorians.
The Victorian Budget 2020/21 invested a record $357 million to strengthen self-determination, improve access to education, provide better housing and health support, and improve the lives of Aboriginal Victorians across all spheres of life.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams
“These new offices are a fantastic home for Yorta Yorta to preserve their history, promote their culture and continue their outstanding work in the community.”
“The project has been driven by the community and designed by local architects – it sits beautifully on the river and has been built for a wide range of cultural and administrative activities. I congratulate everyone involved.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp
“This is a great project for Echuca and the broader region – creating a new home for the history and ongoing work of the Yorta Yorta.”
Reviewed 01 April 2021