Mark Motlop, Chair of the Larrakia Development Corporation, which oversaw the project, recognises the significance of the centre for Larrakia people. “This building is our cultural home. The private opening gave us the space to come together on Country, before we share it with the world,” Motlop says.
Designed by Rossi Architects in collaboration with Susan Dugdale and Associates, the $58-million centre is adjacent to the Stokes Hill sacred site and was inspired by a cultural centre in Whistler, Canada, and others around the world. It gives visitors an opportunity to engage with Larrakia culture through architecture, exhibitions, art, landscape and cultural experiences.
Its architectural design draws directly on Larrakia history and brings a Larrakia Dreaming story to life using the building itself to express a story connected to Country. The roofline is shaped to evoke the tawny frogmouth emerging from Stokes Hill, symbolising the bird watching over and protecting Country and its people. Timber across the facade references the bird’s feathers, extending the narrative into the architecture.
The surrounding landscape features landscaped gardens representing the seven Larrakia seasons, a saltwater ceremony pond and an outdoor auditorium. At its heart is an arts studio where Larrakia Elders and artists will lead hands-on workshops, covering everything from traditional string making and crocodile painting to bush tucker talks and spear crafting. Visitors can also shop for ethically sourced local wares at the gift shop (which directly supports Larrakia artists) before pulling up a table at the on-site restaurant for bush-food-inspired dining paired with waterfront views.
Together, the building, landscape and cultural objects create an environment through which visitors can learn about Larrakia people, culture and Country.
Visitors can explore exhibitions and galleries, participate in cultural experiences and engage with the centre's landscape. On display are 23 cultural items that have been repatriated to Larrakia land from interstate and overseas, as well as a replica of the Larrakia peoples' 1972 petition to Queen Elizabeth II for land rights and political representation.
According to Professor Helen Garnett, Chair of the Larrakia Cultural Centre Limited Board, the centre offers visitors a way to engage with Larrakia culture and history through its permanent exhibition.
“Visitors will find an amazing building with a permanent exhibition telling the story of Larrakia culture and history. It is a place that people from Darwin and from elsewhere should explore, learn from and enjoy,” Professor Garnett says.
The idea for the centre was conceived in 2002, and negotiations between the Larrakia Development Corporation (LDC) and Northern Territory government on granting the waterfront location and developing the venue lasted from 2005 to 2022 before construction began two years ago.
Larrakia Development Corporation Deputy Chair Chrissy Jenner informs that the centre would play an ongoing role in strengthening Larrakia culture for future generations. “This centre carries our culture forward and helps create a strong future for our people,” Jenner says. “It is owned and culturally led by Larrakia people. Our voices guide the stories and cultural experiences shared here. Our artists, businesses and organisations will bring this place to life and create opportunities for our families and future generations.”
The Larrakia Cultural Centre is located at 29 Stokes Hill Road, Darwin City. Its kiosk opens from 8am, while the exhibition and gallery operate from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday.