18/05/2026
Curtin University Agricola – Karlkurla Site Visit
On 1 April, Curtin University, TRCB, Ochre, Winmar Enterprise, Aspect, FORM and Proven Project Management embarked on a two-day Cultural Awareness journey with the Kalamaaya Kapurn people of Karlkurla, concluding with a presentation of the Agricola Residential College Student Hub to Kapurn Elders and Knowledge Holders.
A huge thank you to Scott Patterson of Ochre, Barry Winmar of Winmar Enterprise, and Curtin University for giving the design team the opportunity to connect with the Kapurn people and bring their cultural narrative into the Agricola Student Hub design.
Day One began with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Noelene Walley, a Kapurn Elder, introducing the Agricola Student Hub. Standing on Country, we watched the next generation of Kapurn people perform dance as part of the Welcome. The accompanying song honoured the singer’s late grandmother and the passing of traditions through generations.
Cultural Awareness training was presented by Shari Champion and Charmaine Champion of the Kapurn people. Through honest and deeply personal stories, they shared perspectives on raw and significant historical experiences, including the Aborigines Act 1905 WA, the impacts of child removal, mission life and lived experiences.
Day One concluded with Elders George and James guiding the team through significant Kalgoorlie sites, retelling stories from their past. Visiting sites around town, including the 1962 Last Corroboree site near Agricola, the nearby waterhole, Mount Charlotte Reservoir and Super Pit.
Day Two saw TRCB, Aspect & FORM present the Agricola Student Hub Schematic Design to the Kapurn Elders for their advice on the proposed buildings, landscape, and public art.
It was a remarkable and enriching opportunity to connect with Country, community and culture. Our heartfelt thanks to Curtin University for supporting this initiative.
Image 1 Credit | Koosha Saririan
Image 2 & 3 Credit | Scott Patterson
Image 4 Credit | Alan Tham
Image 5 Credit | Megan Salmon