The Larrakia Cultural Centre has opened to the public in Darwin, after more than 20 years of vision, leadership and advocacy by Larrakia people.
Larrakia people are the Traditional Owners of the Darwin/Garrmalang region and are saltwater people made up of nine family groups, with more than 2,600 Larrakia people living in and around Darwin.
The centre is a permanent home for Larrakia culture, bringing together stories, knowledge, art and cultural experiences in a place owned and led by Larrakia people.
Last week, Larrakia Elders and families gathered privately at the centre – giving Larrakia people the time and space to experience their cultural home first.
Mark Motlop, chair of the Larrakia Development Corporation, which has overseen the project, recognised the significance of the centre for Larrakia people.
“This building is our cultural home. The private opening gave us the space to come together on Country, before we share it with the world,” Motlop said.
Grounded in Larrakia history, the architecture brings a Larrakia Dreaming story to life through its design. From above, the roofline takes the form of a tawny frogmouth emerging from Stokes Hill to watch over and protect Country and its people, while the timber façade represents the bird’s feathers and carries the story through the building.
The landscape design reflects the land and water of Larrakia Country through monsoon, savanna and coastal environments. A garden representing the seven Larrakia seasons and a saltwater ceremony pond create places for cultural practice, ceremony and connection.
Protect & strengthen culture
Larrakia Development Corporation Deputy Chair Chrissy Jenner said the centre would help protect and strengthen Larrakia culture for future generations.
“This centre carries our culture forward and helps create a strong future for our people,” Jenner said. “It is owned and culturally led by Larrakia people. Our voices guide the stories and cultural experiences shared here. Our artists, businesses and organisations will bring this place to life and create opportunities for our families and future generations.”
Professor Helen Garnett, chair of the Larrakia Cultural Centre Limited Board, said the centre gives visitors the opportunity to experience and learn about Larrakia culture.
“Visitors will find an amazing building with a permanent exhibition telling the story of Larrakia culture and history. It is a place that people from Darwin and from elsewhere should explore, learn from and enjoy,” Garnett said.
Visitors can experience Larrakia culture through exhibitions, art, cultural experiences and the centre’s surrounding landscape, and can also enjoy food and harbour views from the restaurant.
The Larrakia Cultural Centre is located at 29 Stokes Hill Road, Darwin City. The kiosk opens from 8am, with the exhibition and gallery open 10am–4pm, Monday to Saturday.
