Bundiyarra host community information session for Aboriginal short stay accommodation project in Geraldton

Progress is being made on the construction of 44 short-stay accommodation units at the Bundiyarra Aboriginal Corporation site in Utakarra, prompting a community information session last week.

The $28.5 million project is a significant development for Indigenous community welfare in Geraldton and broke ground on January 31, aiming to address the accommodation needs of Indigenous people visiting Geraldton for medical services, family events and other community engagements.

Department of Communities regional executive director Bradley Mitchell and project manager Tessara Callaghan hosted an information session on Wednesday afternoon delving into the details of the project.

Bundiyarra CEO Wayne McDonald said the accommodation was helping tackle an ongoing problem of overcrowding in local family homes.

“They come to town and stay with family, but the problem is they don’t leave which causes overcrowding” Mr McDonald said.

The new units, expected to be completed by the end of 2025, are designed to be culturally appropriate and safe, catering specifically to the needs of Indigenous visitors and will cost $30 per stay.

Ms Callaghan said the tender for the organisation, which would operate the accommodation would go out at the end of 2024.

“During our community consultation, it was very clear that this is short stay accommodation, for Aboriginal people and it needs to be delivered by an Aboriginal service,” Ms Callaghan said.

During the information session, questions were asked in regard to whether or not the accommodation would be classified as crisis accommodation — which it is not.

The site will have the capacity to house up to 100 people at any given time, providing a welcoming environment for those travelling to Geraldton from the broader Mid West region for up to 28 days.

Designed by Eastman Sherwood Poletti architects, the project construction is in the hands of GBSC Yurra, which has emphasised a commitment to local community engagement.

They have pledged to involve local businesses and staff, aiming for 80 per cent of the workforce to be sourced locally for the $23 million contract.

Assistant project manager for GBSC Yurra, Daniel Hatley said though the project was still in fledgling stages, it has employed up to 90 people with expectations of triple that figure to be employed once it is finished.

This location will facilitate easier access to services using a 24/7 staffed reception which can help link customers to a shuttle bus and other services.