A striking new design addition and building name have been revealed for the much-anticipated Bendigo GovHub, celebrating the region’s rich Aboriginal culture.
The Andrews Labor Government today confirmed the name of the new building – Galkangu – and that its façade would feature the shield of the Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owners.
Galkangu means making things happen together and being more connected to Country. It was chosen after extensive consultation with the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Clans Corporation (DJAARA) Elders.
The façade design was created by Dja Dja Wurrung, Yorta Yorta and Jaru artist Natasha Carter. Its diamond pattern represents identity, protection, honour and the historic Recognition and Settlement Agreement of 2013 that formally acknowledged the Dja Dja Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners for part of Central Victoria.
The building will achieve a minimum 5 Green Star rating, efficient indoor air quality systems and water and energy monitoring systems.
More than 150,000 artefacts dating from the goldfields era to the 1960s were discovered during an archaeological dig on the site – the largest dig of its kind in regional Victoria.
The Bendigo GovHub is expected to be complete by early 2023, generating 200 new local jobs during construction and injecting an estimated $130 million into the local economy.
Up to 1,000 Victorian Government and City of Greater Bendigo employees will work at the state-of-the-art, flexible workspace providing a centrally located, one-stop-shop for government services to Bendigo.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Today underlines the importance of our partnership with the Dja Dja Wurrungand reinforces the significance of Aboriginal heritage in the wider Bendigo community.”
“The GovHub not only creates more local jobs once complete – but it will make it easier for people to get all the services and support they need in one spot.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“We are proud to support the region’s revitalisation with Galkangu – honouring Traditional Owners in design, language and landscape as part of this iconic building for Bendigo.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“The work of DJAARA, Natasha Carter and the Elders in designing and naming Galkangu will strengthen the presence of Dja Dja Wurrung culture in central Bendigo.”
Quote attributable to Dja Dja Wurrung Group CEO Rodney Carter
“Our symbols that are present in and around Galkangu will empower those serving the community and will be a significant step for those that live on Dja Dja Wurrung Country – together we will prosper.”
Reviewed 11 November 2021