WALAAYBAA Cultural Room Opening in Tamworth
Date: May 27, 2024
Introducing WALAAYBAA: A New Cultural Safe Space at the Tamworth Education Centre
The University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health is proud to unveil WALAAYBAA, a dedicated cultural safe space and cultural room at our Tamworth Education Centre. The term "WALAAYBAA" comes from the local Kamilaroi language, meaning "meeting place" or "home".
Crafted to be a sanctuary for students, staff, and community, WALAAYBAA offers a space for connection, conversation, work, study, and cultural reconnection. Understanding the significance of safe environments for overall well-being and grounding, we are delighted to introduce this space during Reconciliation Week, reinforcing our commitment to reconciliation and cultural inclusion. We celebrated the opening with a powerful smoking ceremony performed by local Elder Uncle Neville Sampson, symbolising the cleansing and renewal of the space.
The WALAAYBAA room at TEC serves as a testament to UONDRH's ongoing commitment to reconciliation and cultural awareness. By providing a welcoming space for all, it aims to nurture relationships and support the well-being of students, staff, and community members alike.
A heartfelt thank you to our staff and students involved in creating such a wonderful space, Uncle Neville, Local Elders, Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council , Gomeroi Gaaynggal Study staff, local artists, local media, and everyone who participated and supported us on this special day.
Our new WALAAYBAA room represents more than just a physical space; it embodies our dedication to fostering cultural understanding, connection, and inclusivity within our community. As we celebrate Reconciliation Week, we are proud to provide a place where everyone can come together, learn, and share their stories.
"It is our vision that we offer a safe space for people to connect and particularly people to connect around issues that face Indigenous Australians. I hope it is not only this room, but the whole building." - Professor Jenny May, Director of University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health.
You can read more about our WALAAYBAA room & it's grand opening in The Northern Daily Leader & NBN News.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.