Demolition makes way for new North Straddie cultural centre

Demolition has started on the site earmarked for the new Minjerribah Cultural Centre – a major milestone for the North Stradbroke Island economic transition strategy.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones was on site with Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) CEO Cameron Costello to inspect demolition work today.

Ms Jones joined Mr Costello to officially launch the Gudjundabu Marumba Gubiyiyanya: Tourism for a Glad Tomorrow report - a five year strategy for sustainable tourism on Quandamooka Country.

“We’re working with QYAC to transform the economy on North Stradbroke Island. Today’s demolition work is a major milestone in that process,” she said.

“The miners’ facilities in Dunwichwill make way for a multi-million-dollar cultural centre.

“We’re working with QYAC to create sustainable jobs for locals and conserve the natural beauty of the island.

“The Minjerribah Cultural Centre will be a place where Quandamooka people can connect with land and water, display their art and precious objects and educate visitors about their culture, art, history and traditions.

“It will create jobs for locals by providing a platform for new small businesses to capitalise.

“The launch of the Gudjundabu Marumba Gubiyiyanya plan will help to shape the rollout of the government’s Economic Transition Strategy and highlights the importance of ecotourism for locals when it comes to protecting the environment.”

The Minjerribah Cultural Centre is one of 23 initiatives that make up the North Stradbroke Island Economic Transition Strategy.

It will have an indoor display area, reception area and office and a large outdoor space with areas for external gatherings, ceremonies and outdoor dining.

“Other initiatives include the Indigenous ranger training program. This has seen an extra five Quandamooka people being employed full-time as land and sea rangers,” Ms Jones said.

Gudjundabu Marumba outlines steps to drive ecological, culturally responsible and sustainable tourism on Quandamooka Country, while creating employment, education and business opportunities for the Quandamooka People.

“This isan important document that recognises that Quandamooka People are pivotal in decision-making about tourism activities occurring on Quandamooka Country.

“This report sets out a five-year strategy to develop authentic Indigenous cultural experiences in Quandamooka Country.”

The Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Officer Cameron Costello said; “the cultural centre will enable the Quandamooka People to share their culture, heritage, art and environmental practices with visitors from all over the world.”

ENDS

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