Areyonga Community Inc. in the Northern Territory received funding from the NT Department of Community Development and Cultural Affairs to restore an old run down mission house built in the 1950s. Opened in August, the building provides visitor accommodation. Pastor Leo Kalleske and wife Lydia arrived at the then Finke River Mission in 1952, where the building became their home for the next 34 years.Both Leo and Lydia have received Order of Australia Medals for their work in Areyonga.
Rather than bring in outside contractors, Community Coordinator, John Webb, employed local workers to undertake the restoration, instilling pride in the community.
Leo Kalleske officially opened the restored mission house. He travelled with his two daughters from Adelaide for the opening.
Nostalgic photo collections with calligraphy of the 1950s era onwards were used to form a wall of memory for the community.Photos included Leo Kelleske’s induction, the original ration store and other buildings now long gone. One photo depicts an old cart used to carry firewood and orchard supplies with children of the 1950s standing by. Remains of the cart have been secured outside the mission house building.
Preserving Aboriginal history, the collection also features a cabinet displaying rare traditional ceremonial items and church keepsakes such as the original bible donated from England to the church. A new Pitjantjatjara translation has replaced the old bible.
In honour of the Kalleske family the main road has now been named Kalleske Drive.
For further information contact Helen Webb, Council Clerk, on (08) 8956 7311.
