The community came together to celebrate the unveiling of the Garby Elders Marquee and vehicle at Woolgoolga Public School Oval on 9 December.
This important initiative by Garby Elders aims to promote and share indigenous culture, knowledge and skills through language and creative activities, promoting good health and wellbeing in our community, while protecting and preserving Aboriginal Culture.
Local schoolchildren took part in an artwork design competition from stories told by Aunty Deb and Tony Dootson, and Daniel Dootson created and designed along with the children’s artwork to complete the final design for the Marquee – it is purpose-built so Garby Elders can attend community events and festivals across the Coffs Coast.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh supported Garby Elders Aboriginal Corporation in its application for funding under the Aboriginal Affairs NSW Government Community and Place Grants Program, which subsequently allocated $116,791 to the project.
At the event, Mr Singh thanked Garby Elders for their vital work in our region and spoke about the significant role the Marquee will play in their community programs.
