$760,000 boost for Mowanjum Indigenous Arts Centre

11/8/04
A $2.6million indigenous arts and tourism centre planned for the Mowanjum Community, near Derby, has received a major boost today with the announcement of more than $760,000 in State Government funding.
Kimberley Minister Tom Stephens and local MLA Carol Martin today presented a symbolic $764,745 cheque to Mowanjum Aboriginal Corporation community chairman Ernest Nulgit at the site of the proposed facility.
Indigenous arts and culture-based tourism have a big part to play in the future of Derby and the West Kimberley.
"The area's indigenous art, dance and song traditions are known and acclaimed internationally," Mr Stephens said.
"Add to this its stunning landscape and coastline and you have the potential for a very significant arts and tourism sector centred on Derby."
Ms Martin said the centre would provide employment and training opportunities for some 100 indigenous artists and tourism workers over the next three years.
"Having this new centre as a focus for the West Kimberley will also encourage new business development and promote cultural education," she said.
"The Mowanjum Community's initiative in establishing this centre will bring benefits to the whole Kimberley community."
Mr Stephens said the funds were provided through the Indigenous Infrastructure Projects Program ($500,000) and Lotterywest ($264,745) Community Grants.
More information about financial assistance programs is available from the Government's Grants Directory at http://www.dlgrd.wa.gov.au/grantsDir/default.asp
Minister's office: 9213 6500