A. A Cultural Oasis for Aboriginal Communities
B. The QUAMPI Centre:
The unveiling was a significant event that marked the completion of the centre and signaled a new era for the region. The QUAMPI centre is a multi-faceted cultural facility that serves a variety of purposes, including arts and crafts, cultural programs, and educational opportunities. It acts as a hub for Aboriginal artists, performers, and educators, fostering creativity and cultural awareness. The centre’s significance lies in its role as a platform for Aboriginal culture and language to be shared and celebrated.
The unveiled commemorative plaque notes that “the Quandamooka Arts and Culture Centre represents the realisation of a long-held ambition over many decades to create a prominent place for the Nunukul, Goenpul and Ngugi people to celebrate and showcase their culture. Designed by the Quandamooka People, the centre honours the Ancestors and Elders as an enduring site of significance to welcome people of all cultures from across the world for truth telling and education through sharing of our Quandamooka creativity, knowledge, and history.” “QUAMPI is a Community Space, a Cultural Space and a Public offering all responding to Place. A strong sense of community welcome and ownership, has been a critical component of the design,” says COX Director, Richard Coulson.
This practice was not only a way to honour the local culture but also a sustainable practice. The building’s design was inspired by the island’s unique landscape and its natural resources. The building’s design is a reflection of the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.
QUAMPI was co-designed by COX and the Quandamooka people, integrating key elements of the land and sea into the build such as rammed earth, shells and native timbers. “It’s been a tremendous honour to work together with Quandamooka Elders and community members since the project began seven years ago. They’ve been incredibly generous in sharing their knowledge of people, place, and culture,” says COX Associate Director, Ali Farmer. “The Centre located at Gumpi (Dunwich) overlooking Moreton Bay is part of a wider arts and culture program that extends well beyond the building footprint” Project inception and community engagement was realised in collaboration with The Fulcrum Agency.
