New space for sharing culture in Katanning
A new purpose-built meeting place for Katanning’s First Nations people to meet, yarn and share culture has been officially opened, backed by a $92,000 contribution from the Cook Government.
The KAARL (fire) Yarning Place is part of the government’s $15.72 million Katanning Heritage Centre investment, which included rejuvenating the town centre, advancing the Piesse Lake development, welcome precinct, botanic garden and recreation area.
Designed as a welcoming and reflective space, KAARL Yarning offers the community a culturally safe place for conversation, storytelling and connection.
The yarning circle’s centrepiece is a firepit arrangement, covered by an all-weather shelter to allow for gatherings to share, heal, remember the past and talk about the future.
“The KAARL Yarning Place signals the strength and vision of Katanning’s Noongar community, as well as the importance of creating spaces that honour culture and bringing people together,” Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch said.
“The Government is proud to support a space that will play an important role in sharing culture.”
KAARL Yarning also provides a place for ceremonies and performances which Noongar people can share with a wider audience as part of cultural events and festivals.
Located at the Katanning Noongar Centre, the yarning place acknowledges the importance of First Nations people, fostering respect and pride within the Noongar community of Katanning and the broader community.
The official opening acknowledges the strong partnership between State and local governments, Katanning Aboriginal Corporation and the Katanning Noongar Leadership Group.
