THE Shire of Northam council reached an important milestone for the planned Aboriginal & Environmental Interpretive Centre, at its meeting on May 18, endorsing architectural concept designs and accepting interpretive concepts developed to date.
Identified as part of the Northam Regional Centres Growth plan, and after receiving significant financial support from the Federal Government, the Centre will be developed into the iconic tourism facility for the Avon Region whilst recognising the regions unique environmental elements and celebrating local aboriginal culture.
In late 2015, Council appointed Architects Iredale Pederson Hook, and Interpretive designers Thylacine Design Services, who have been working in the community to develop the concepts and plans.
Shire President, Cr Steven Pollard said the decision of Council at its Ordinary Council Meeting on May 18 was an important milestone.
“The Aboriginal & Environmental Interpretive Centre is viewed as an important project for Northam and the region," he said.
"Council endorsing the plans and concepts designs allows the project to progress to its next stage of detailed design.
"We are really excited about the next phase of development and are strongly encouraging local Aboriginal leaders and environmental champions in and around Northam to become involved to ensure the very best outcome for Northam and the region."
The concept design, featuring a large interpretive space, freeform space suitable for exhibitions, cultural activities and workshops; a large entry foyer and covered boardwalk; will provide a focal point for visitors to Northam and a hub for visitors who wish to explore more on the environmental and aboriginal cultural experiences on a regional basis.
In their presentation to Council, Thylacine Interpretive Consultants made a range of points about the Centre including the opportunity the centre presented to be a place which compliments and supports developing commercial, indigenous led, enterprise.
The centre, thereby, is a facility contributing building tourism in Northam and the region generally.
Shire of Northam chief executive Jason Whiteaker said the next stage is really starting to focus on detail.
“From an architectural perspective the designs are in essence agreed to, however there is still a lot more consultation and work to be done around the fit out of the centre and interpretation," he said.
“One of the things which has come through very strongly was the importance of the use of technology within the centre.
"We are not looking to develop a museum or stagnate display, we are very much looking at applying technology to tell the stories around the environment and aboriginal community."
It is planned to have the centre opened towards the end of 2017.