Land has now been allocated at Stokes Hill to develop a new cultural centre for Larrakia people.
The Larrakia Development Corporation (LDC) has been in negotiations with the NT Government over a suitable site for the last 15 years.
The Northern Territory Government has approved a grant of Crown land, valued at $16.9 million for the development of the Larrakia Cultural Centre.
The facility, set to cost $40 million, is among the projects included in the Darwin City Deal, which will be funded through a grant from the Aboriginal Benefits Account.
The Centre is a key part of the LDC’s plan to reinvigorate Larrakia culture, history and language.
LDC CEO Nigel Browne says it’s an historic day for Larrakia people.
“The negotiations to acquire freehold took longer than anticipated, but is a significant transaction,” Mr Browne says.
“We, as Saltwater People, will have a permanent presence in the immediate vicinity of one of our last remaining sacred sites, but the transfer also signifies the formal extinguishment of our last Native Title rights.”
“Our elders, those who fought so long for Larrakia rights, this is one of their greatest legacies.”
He says the centre will create economic and social benefits for Larrakia people and the broader community.
Chief Minister Natasha Fyles says the land transfer will allow the Larrakia people to preserve and share their culture and language with locals and visitors.
“We know that one of the many reasons that people come to the Northern Territory is for an authentic Aboriginal cultural experience that is like nowhere else.”
(Photo: LDC via Facebook)
