**Vision News Release available here – Vimeo**
The first project jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments’ Aboriginal-owned Assets Program has been completed, with repairs to the Dunghutti Elders Council at Kempsey restoring it to a place of community pride.
The Aboriginal-owned Assets program, through the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, provided funding for 27 projects aimed at the repair, restoration or betterment of Aboriginal-owned social infrastructure damaged by the severe weather and floods of February and June 2022
Dunghutti Elders Council Aboriginal Corporation was awarded $281,150 to address significant damage to its building and driveways.
The building's interior has been repainted to remove stains left by floodwaters. Old windows have been replaced and doorways resealed to better protect the inside of the building against bad weather.
Drainage improvements and new downpipes now redirect stormwater away from the building and carpark, reducing the risk of future flash flooding and inundation.
Three external awnings have been installed to protect staff from the elements.
The Dunghutti Elders Council is the peak body for the Dunghutti Nation. Its centre provides emergency relief, access to community support and education services and is a cultural meeting place for local people.
Quotes attributable to Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Director Recovery & Resilience Programs Megan Cleary:
"The completion of the first Aboriginal-owned Assets Program project marks a significant milestone in improving the flood resilience of Aboriginal communities and the social infrastructure they rely on in northern NSW.
“By providing targeted disaster assistance, we have alleviated the financial pressures associated with recovery efforts, allowing the Dunghutti Elders Council to invest in additional building upgrades that enhance their engagement with the local Aboriginal community.
“This is a clear example of how governments can work together to support the long-term recovery of disaster-impacted Aboriginal communities, helping them build greater flood resilience, and delivering positive economic and social outcomes."
Quotes attributable to National Emergency Management Agency Deputy Coordinator-General for Disaster Resilience and Recovery, Dr. Jill Charker:
“Through the Aboriginal-owned Assets Program both levels of government have jointly supported Dunghutti Elders Council to undertake this project they identified after the 2022 floods.
“We recognise how important this asset is to community and cultural connection, and it’s positive to see that despite the challenges the Council faced, they have been able to build to a more resilient standard.
“I congratulate the Council for their dedication to repair this space, which will also serve the community during times of emergency and build community resilience to floods, and I’m excited to see more projects under the program reach milestones like this in the future.”
Quotes attributable to Dunghutti Elders Council Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Pastor Leo Wright:
"We are deeply grateful for the support provided by the Aboriginal-owned Assets Program, which has enabled us to repair and enhance our community building and surrounding areas.
“This building is not just a physical structure; it is a symbol of our rich heritage and resilience.
“The improvements will ensure that our centre remains a safe and welcoming space for our community and are crucial for supporting our Elders and providing a hub for our youth and families.
“We are committed to fostering a stronger, more resilient community and these upgrades are a significant step towards that goal.
“We look forward to continuing our work in this revitalised space, ensuring that the Dunghutti/Thunghutti heritage thrives for generations to come."
