The space was designed in consultation with the youth of the community with the aim to be a healing space for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the region.
A momentous occasion unfolded last week as the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative (Wathaurong) Community gathered to inaugurate the new Healing Spirit Youth Hub, christened Karroong Kanyool, meaning “Home of the Young” in Wathaurong language.
Located on Forster Street in Norlane, this revitalised space marks a significant milestone in the community’s journey towards empowering its youth.
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Originally established in 1984, Forster Street served as one of Wathaurong’s earliest homes before the organisation relocated to its current community hub on Morgan Street, North Geelong, in 1996. However, thanks to a generous $1.6 million grant from the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Program in 2022, coupled with support from the Victorian Health Building Authority, Wathaurong seized the opportunity to reimagine Forster Street as a sanctuary for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals in the region.
Designed in collaboration with the youth of the community, Karroong Kanyool boasts a range of facilities tailored to support the holistic wellbeing of its young visitors. From dedicated consulting suites for accessing health and wellbeing specialists to a sensory space, access to technology, and a vibrant outdoor basketball half-court adorned in the colours of the Aboriginal flag, the hub caters to diverse needs and interests.
The outdoor area further features spaces for men’s and women’s gatherings, centred around a communal firepit for yarning circles. A deck seamlessly connects the indoor function space, facilitating indoor/outdoor activities and fostering a sense of community cohesion.
The launch event was a poignant affair, with community members reminiscing about raising their children at Forster Street in the 80s and 90s. Simon Flagg, CEO of Wathaurong, articulated the Board’s vision for the next generation to embrace Forster Street as their own.
“Wathaurong has listened to our young people, and we are thrilled to finally deliver on a space that has been developed by and for our young mob,” said Mr. Flagg. “Our youth are our future, our Elders of tomorrow, and we want them to grow and become our leaders through the programs and supports we offer here.”
A symbolic moment ensued as the Aboriginal flag was ceremonially raised by Jordan Edwards, Lachlan Edwards, and Shantelle Baillie, who spearheaded the initial youth consultation process in 2020, contributing to the vision of the youth hub.
Karroong Kanyool is set to commence its programs in Term 2, with further details available on www.wathaurong.org.au.
