Bundiyarra – “A Good Place”

Bundiyarra Aboriginal Community Aboriginal Corporation was formally incorporated in 1992 after a decade of determined advocacy by local Elders who fought for access to Reserve 22660 in Utakarra. The site was chosen for its deep cultural and historical significance, long known as a gathering and camping place for Aboriginal families visiting Geraldton or waiting for housing on the former Aboriginal Natives Reserve.

Founding families — including the Ronans, Danns, Camerons, Dodds, Gregorys, Nannups, Whitbys, and Mallards — worked collectively to establish Bundiyarra as a central place for community connection. In 1994, the Aboriginal Lands Trust granted Bundiyarra a 99‑year peppercorn lease over the five‑hectare block, and land clearing began the following year. Buildings were constructed in 1997 through a Central West TAFE Aboriginal construction program, and the first facility opened in May 1998. Local artists contributed murals, including Maxine Charlie (dec), whose artwork became Bundiyarra’s logo for 28 years.

In 2002, the WA Government transferred full care, control, and management of the reserve to Bundiyarra, marking a major milestone celebrated by community and leaders. The name “Bundiyarra,” given by the late Dora Dann (dec), means “A Good Place” in Wajarri, reflecting its cultural importance.

Since its establishment, Bundiyarra has delivered a wide range of programs and services across Geraldton, the Midwest, Murchison, and Gascoyne regions. Today, Bundiyarra continues to support community through initiatives in Aboriginal Community Resource Centre services, Language & Culture, Aboriginal Environmental Health, Early Childhood Education, Youth, Family & Community services, and the newly developed Bundiyarra Regional Aboriginal Community Kinship Stay (BRACKS) facility.