When Craig McVee’s ancestors led the first Europeans to visit the area to ‘The Spring’, the notions of sharing this precious resource and living in harmony were established. In spite of later conflicts resulting in bloodshed, injustices and then intolerance, Craig McVee, Chairperson of the Kojonup Aboriginal Corporation and the Shire’s Works Manager, believes that with the Kodja Place project the community is back on track.
He said that Kodja Place is not about telling two different stories, one indigenous and another non indigenous, but one story in many voices.
“Kodja Place gives us the opportunity to tell our part of the story,” he said. “Visitors will be able to have a guided tour with a Noongar person and stop off in the story telling room. After years of outside influences and intense pressures, we are trying to save our culture. This building provides the means to do this and tell others.”
He said the arts and cultural projects, the landscaping incorporating Noongar elements plus the bush tucker trail will provide new employment opportunities.
“The Shire and Tourist Association has involved the Noongar community from the outset of the project,” Craig McVee said. “This is helping to break down barriers and open doors for us.”
He added that Council has been a great supporter of the local indigenous community, demonstrated by the fact that in a staff of 48, there are eight full time and one part time Noongar people working for the Shire.
