AFTER a decade in the making, the Armidale Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place will finally have a completed gallery and function space with a massive funding injection from the state government.
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Construction will begin in July, thanks to the regional cultural fund grant for more than $800,000.
Centre director Daisy William said the construction would be completed in time for the 30th anniversary of the cultural centre.
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“This grant will help the Armidale Aboriginal Cultural Centre complete a half-completed gallery and build a safe car park on our grounds,” Dr William said.
“The completion of these projects will mean that we will be able to have more exhibitions, increase art sales, provide higher income for Aboriginal artists and increase our programs.”
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall delivered the news of the $846,000 funding boost to complete the Keeping Place’s gallery and function space on Monday.
“The project will importantly allow the centre to complete a second gallery that will double exhibition space and boost art sales and visitor numbers,” Mr Marshall said.
“The centre has been operating since 1988 and is one of only a few in NSW that has grown and thrived – even though it’s been hamstrung by having only one gallery space to run exhibitions out of.
“The second gallery was originally part of the plan and the frame was built in 1999, but was never finished – but this $846,000 will complete that and bring that dream to reality.”
The Armidale centre is the only fully-operating Aboriginal cultural centre in the New England and North West region.
“It attracts about 16,000 visits a year and $20,000 in art sales which translates to about $3.4million to the local economy and generates 15 jobs. Economic modelling suggests that could double with a second gallery,” Mr Marshall said.
“This project to extend its space and amenities is an exciting one and one that I’ve been working on for the past three years.”
The funding is part of the first under the NSW Government’s Regional Cultural Fund and is one of 68 projects from 12 regions across the state that is sharing in close to $50 million in first round grants.
“The Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place is essential as a place to gather and exhibit important information and items of Aboriginal culture but also as a safe place to keep significant relics and artefacts,” Armidale Regional councillor Brad Widders said.
“I remember going there as a primary school student and the impact it had on me as an Aboriginal kid.
“The improvement planned through this funding will ensure the centre and Keeping Place continue to resonate so strongly with Aboriginal community members and the wider community.”
