A new changeroom facility known as Djandoo Mia, Home of the Whistling Kite, officially opened at Thomas Oval in Medina on Friday.
Djandoo Mia enjoys a vista over Thomas Oval and towards Wilki Karda (Chalk Hill) from the covered spectator area and features four changerooms, two universally accessible toilets, two dedicated umpire rooms, two storage areas and a kiosk.
Elder Trevor Walley’s Welcome to Country featured memories of living in and traversing the area around Wilki Karda and Mayor Peter Feasey said the name Djandoo Mia was developed with the local Aboriginal community to ensure the facility was culturally appropriate, uniquely identifiable and readily distinguishable from other buildings on the Thomas Oval reserve.
The project was identified in the City’s Community Infrastructure Plan and was partly funded by a $2.4 million Federal Government Investing In Our Communities grant, committed at the last Election by Federal Member for Brand Madeleine King, with the remainder covered by developer contributions.
"This facility reflects our commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that supports participation, inclusion and wellbeing. It will be a valued community asset for generations to come," Mayor Feasey said.
“A bright mural by renowned artist Andrew Frazer, who also grew up in the Kwinana area, beautifully captures the enduring linkage to home, place and sport.
“Two Whistling Kits birds frame the original fresh watering hole reference with welcoming and signalling fires sitting gently at the base.
“From the bull reeds' pollen gently carried by the breeze and human movement across the sporting fields, the mural celebrates both the original and present-day settings that make this space deeply valued by so many within the community and beyond.
“This spacious and modern changeroom facility, with kitchen and patio, will support the Kwinana Titans Rugby Club, Kwinana Titans Touch Football and the Kwinana Seniors Archery club.
“This facility reflects our commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that supports participation, inclusion and wellbeing.
"We are grateful for the support of the Australian Government through the Investing in Our Communities Program and for everyone who contributed to bringing this project to life."
Comments attributed to Federal Member for Brand Madeleine King:
"The Australian Government is proud to support projects that create opportunities for people to connect, participate and enjoy active lifestyles close to home,” Ms King said.
“This funding is incredibly important for the local community, helping deliver modern infrastructure the Kwinana region needs to thrive for generations to come.”
