New International Centre for Indigenous learning and study funded

A view of the proposed centre. Inset: Adam Crouch, Member for Terrigal, with, Kim Walker, CEO of NAISDAA view of the proposed centre. Inset: Adam Crouch, Member for Terrigal, with, Kim Walker, CEO of NAISDA

Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, visited NAISDA Dance College at Kariong, following the College’s recent success in securing $117,164, as part of the first round of the NSW Government’s $100m Regional Cultural Fund.

Crouch said the funding would be allocated towards the first step of NAISDA’s delivery of a new International Centre for Indigenous creative learning and study at its Kariong campus. “Having met today with College staff and students to see the benefit of their work first hand, it’s clear the proposal for an expanded precinct will deliver even greater outcomes for Indigenous arts and culture in our region,” Crouch said.

“I look forward to continuing to partner with NAISDA Dance College to deliver future stages of this project.” NAISDA CEO, Kim Walker, said it was exciting to be working towards a new centre of international cultural and creative excellence, called Naya Wa Yugali, which means ‘We Dance’ in the Dakinjung language.

“It will ensure that even more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people have the opportunity to fulfil their potential and gain the skills and qualifications they need to become our country’s next generation of creative and inspirational leaders,” Walker said. “Investment towards this vision has a significant impact for the Central Coast. “Naya Wa Yugali will be a unique space for our region and beyond, fostering community conversation, reflection, pride and celebration of our Indigenous cultures, stories and heritage.”

Source: Media release, Sep 3 Ben Sheath, office of Adam Crouch