17 October 2024
ActewAGL is proud to announce Yerrabi Yurwang as one of the recipients of its Community Grants for 2024. The funding will support the creation of a culturally significant Bush Tucker Sensory Garden and a Yarning Circle Pit, located at the Yarramundi Cultural Centre.
Chief Executive Officer of Yerrabi Yurwang, Dea Delaney-Thiele, said the project will help preserve and celebrate the rich Ngunnawal culture, while also providing essential community spaces for gathering and learning.
“We are incredibly grateful for ActewAGL’s support in making this vision a reality,” said Dea. “This garden and Yarning Circle will allow us to strengthen cultural ties, provide sensory experiences and empower our community by offering a place for yarning, learning and growing together.”
Rachael Turner, General Manager at ActewAGL Retail, said ActewAGL recognises the importance of supporting projects that empower local communities and preserve cultural heritage. “We’re thrilled to partner with Yerrabi Yurwang to bring this project to life, as it not only honours the Ngunnawal culture but also creates inclusive spaces for education, connection and healing.”
The Bush Tucker Sensory Garden will be developed in consultation with the local Aboriginal community and feature native Ngunnawal plants. “These plants will be used to educate community members on their traditional uses, including for cooking and medicinal purposes,” said Dea. “The garden will also serve as a sensory space for children and adults with sensory needs, making it a valuable resource for inclusive education and therapy.”
At the heart of the project is the Yarning Circle Pit, designed as a culturally appropriate space where members of the First Nations community can gather, connect and share stories on Country. This will be a vital resource for facilitating engagement with services and fostering social connection within the community. The Yarning Circle Pit will also be available to the broader community on weekends, promoting cultural understanding and inclusivity.
Yerrabi Yurwang has made significant strides since opening its doors two years ago, including the launch of vital support groups and community events that have reached over 500 attendees. It is also leading the establishment of the first Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service in northern Canberra.
With the ongoing demand for culturally appropriate services, such as health, housing and early childhood development, Yerrabi Yurwang continues to rely on external funding to meet the growing needs of the community. This ActewAGL grant is a key enabler for Yerrabi Yurwang to fulfil its commitment to nurturing a culturally strong and thriving Aboriginal community in Canberra.
To learn more about this and other ActewAGL community engagement programs, visit www.actewagl.com.au/community
Yerrabi Yurwang will use its ActewAGL Community Grants funding to create a culturally significant Bush Tucker Sensory Garden and Yarning Circle Pit at the Yarramundi Cultural Centre.
