A new Aboriginal cultural centre is set to open in Port Adelaide, marking a milestone in community co-design, environmental regeneration, collaboration, connection, and regional economic growth.
Coinciding with National Reconciliation Week, the landmark $35 million Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Cultural Centre will officially open Sunday.
The one-of-a-kind facility celebrates the region's diverse culture and Kaurna heritage, while opening as a path to reconciliation and regional growth.
Yitpi Yartapuultiku was developed in collaboration with Kaurna Custodians and the Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Working Group, the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, Ashley Halliday Architects and WAX Design.
Aboriginal Elders Uncle Lewis and Aunty Pat Waria-Read contributed to Yitpi Yartapuultiku's co-led design.
"The opening of this cultural centre on Kaurna Yarta is a powerful step forward for our people and the wider community," they said.
This is more than just a building – it is a living space where Kaurna knowledge, language and stories can be shared respected and passed on to future generations.
"It stands as a place of truth telling, healing and pride."
Yitpi Yartapuultiku offers a variety of attractions and services including guided tourism experiences, art exhibitions, nature play spaces, community services, and educational programs that invite exploration in a rich natural setting.
City of Port Adelaide Enfield mayor, Claire Boan said Yitpi Yartapuultiku is a space "where all people can come together to learn, share and grow".
Yitpi Yartapuultiku supports reconciliation by honouring and celebrating Aboriginal culture and history while driving regional growth, creating jobs and attracting tourism. (Image: supplied)
"People can enjoy play areas, sculptural art, and a revitalised public parkland featuring large event spaces, walking paths, fishing spots, and dolphin viewing areas," Mayor Boan said.
"It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, flexible meeting spaces, and a commercial kitchen, making it ideal for any type of gathering."
Designed as a shared space for collaboration and connection, Yitpi Yartapuultiku brings people together through storytelling, art, culture, and environment to build greater understanding and create a more inclusive future for all South Australians.
Ashley Halliday Architects director and Yitpi Yartapuultiku lead architect Ashley Halliday said Yitpi Yartapuultiku has been designed with the collective skill, knowledge, and passionate contributions of many, underpinned by strong Aboriginal cultural direction and council support.
"This Project stands on the shoulders of those Elders and senior people who fought for recognition, truth and justice on an around Yertabulti," Mr Halliday said.
"Walking together, PAE and the Aboriginal community have demonstrated great vision, leadership, courage, patience, and generosity in realising Yitpi Yartapuultiku."
In addition to providing immersive learning experiences, Yitpi Yartapuultiku aims to boost tourism, and strengthen the local economy through inclusive community participation, with the centre set to generate new employment opportunities and attract visitors to the region.
WAX Design director and Yitpi Yartapuultiku lead landscape architect Warwick Keates said being part of the Yitpi Yartapuultiku co-design process was an honour and privilege.
"This project is a testament to the visionary thinking, generosity, and courage of the Kaurna community," Mr Keates said.
"The knowledge that was generously shared by First Nations cultural advisors was critical in creating a culturally safe place to gather, practice and connect to Country and culture."
Free tickets to Yitpi Yartapuultiku's opening day are now available online.
