The Kambarang Festival celebrations, recognising one of the six Noongar seasons, transformed the City of Armadale’s Bob Blackburn reserve into a vibrant hub of excitement and activity today.
The Festival was held to recognise the redevelopment of the Champion Centre and incorporated belated NAIDOC week celebrations.
“It was so exciting to be a part of today’s festivities and officially open our upgraded community facilities, said Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield.
“During the redevelopment staff from both facilities worked in temporary locations and it was challenging for both our teams and community members to be located away from their surroundings.
“It was well worth the wait - and evident today by the number of our community members who attended, had the opportunity to tour the centre and enjoy the celebrations”, she said.
Some highlights of the festival included Aboriginal cultural activities, with a Welcome to Country performed by local Elder Vivienne Hanson and a performance by Aboriginal dance group Mungart Yongah.
The cultural hub for Elders featured storytelling sessions inside the centre and outside under the trees.
The dedicated children’s space offered a variety of activities including a rock climbing wall, a bouncy castle and various activities hosted by the City’s community partner organisations.
There were information stalls, giveaways and a sausage sizzle busier than Bunnings on a Saturday morning!