About

Gwoonwardu Mia Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre, is a multipurpose centre that celebrates the culture and country of the five Aboriginal language groups of the Gascoyne Region. Based in Carnarvon, the centre has worked with people from each of the local language groups to celebrate and share their stories and culture. 

The centre features an interpretive centre, Burlganyja Wanggaya – Old People Talking – listen, learn and respect. This multi-award winning permanent interactive exhibition unites and reflects the culture and stories of the five Aboriginal language groups of the region; Yinggarda, Bayungu, Malgana, Thadgari and Thalanyji. As you walk through the interpretive centre, you’ll explore many themes ranging from stories of the land to the ancient and continuing culture of the region, through to station stories and tales from Carnarvon town. Explore exhibits like the Sky Dome, which showcases a timelapse video of a starry sky, with commentary about the ancient art of stargazing for the Aboriginal community. Learn more about the incredible giant, burrowing bees and marvel at the range of artefacts and objects on display.

At the centre, you’ll also find an art gallery with local artists pieces on display plus a beautiful ethnobotanical garden.

Come and explore the displays and exhibitions and meet our friendly team.

History

In 1996, five local language groups including Bayungu, Inggarda, Thalanji, Thudgarri and Malgana people came together to lodge the first Native Title Claim over the whole of the Gascoyne region of WA. The Gnulli (meaning “all of us”) claim was lodged and sought the right to negotiate over this area. A land use agreement between the State of WA, the Shire of Carnarvon and Gnulli was signed in November 1997 for the purpose of subdivisional development for housing, commercial, tourism and community purposes under the name Carnarvon Fascine.

The Land Use Agreement is about:

• Supporting the Gascoyne Development Commission, AEDO program.
• Provision of employment, training and contract opportunities to Indigenous persons in connection with carrying out of the Carnarvon Fascine project.
• Identification and naming of the proposed street, park and places.
• The suitable land exchange for the purpose of an Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

Advisory Committee

The Gwoonwardu Mia and WA Museum Advisory Committee links Gwoonwardu Mia with the communities it serves.  It is a “two-way” liaison: representing the community to Gwoonwardu Mia and acting as an advocate for Gwoonwardu Mia in the community.

The Advisory Committee meets 3 to 4 times per year to consider and support the general business. There are a maximum of twelve committee member positions available and appointments are for a term of four years and are subject to approval by the Trustees of the Western Australian Museum.

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Team

Our friendly team can’t wait to welcome you to Gwoonwardu Mia. Here’s a bit about us so you can put a name to the face when you arrive! You can contact our team here.