People from all over the region descended on Darlington Point on Wednesday last week for the opening of the Waddi Cultural Information Centre.
The event was attended by about 100 people, including regional government representatives, local councillors and management, community partners, Waddi members and local business people.
The centre is in the heart of the Wiradyuri Nation, and offers an exploration of local arts, history, and culture.
The idea for the centre was born in 2015, when the Waddi Housing and Advancement Corporation Ltd office was condemned.
The plan was to replace the area with a cultural garden and rejuvenate the disused community centre to realise its full potential.
The corporation was granted $380,000 from the Stronger Communities Funding Program and partnered with Murrumbidgee Council to create the facility.
The Waddi Cultural Centre features artworks by renowned artist Allan McKenzie, Owen Lyons and up and coming artist Karissa Undy – KPU Creative.
Weaving by Paula Undy, hand crafted didgeridoos by Ben Curphy and other local Darlington Point Wiradyuri artist displays are also included, and the centre also offers visitors an immersive journey into Waddi’s cultural history and vibrant present.
The grand opening event included a traditional welcome ceremony, lead by Uncle Michael Lyons, followed by the Marrambidya Dance Group, didgeridoo performance by Mr Curphey and River Maxwell and the launch of the book ‘Oral Histories of the Warangesda Mission’.
The day was attended by historian and author Peter Kabaila who was instrumental in capturing the Warangesda Aboriginal Mission story. His story boards are on display at the centre.