Dreamtime Cultural Centre facts for kids

The Dreamtime Cultural Centre is a special place in Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. It's a centre for Indigenous culture, art, and learning.

You can find it in Parkhurst, near the northern entrance to Rockhampton. The centre was created to help people learn more about the culture, history, and traditions of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

They do this through cultural displays, guided tours, and fun activities. Many visitors and backpackers from around the world come to see the centre each year.

Discovering the Dreamtime Cultural Centre

The Dreamtime Cultural Centre is a vibrant place where you can explore the rich cultures of Australia's First Peoples. It helps everyone understand and appreciate the history and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

What You Can See and Do

The centre offers many ways to learn and experience culture:

• Cultural Displays: See amazing art and historical items.
• Guided Tours: Learn from Indigenous guides who share stories and knowledge.
• Interactive Activities: Take part in hands-on experiences.

It's a popular spot for both local families and tourists visiting Rockhampton.

How the Centre Began

The idea for the Dreamtime Cultural Centre started in the 1980s. Two important people, Nola James and Ted Mitchell, worked hard to make it happen.

Early Steps and Funding

In 1983, Nola James and Ted Mitchell visited Canberra. They asked for money to build the centre. They spoke to the Aboriginal Development Commission and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Clyde Holding.

The project was expected to cost about $2 million. The Rockhampton City Council helped by giving the land in Parkhurst for the centre.

Official Openings and Growth

The Dreamtime Cultural Centre was a special Bicentennial Project. This means it was part of Australia's 200th birthday celebrations.

• On 9 April 1988, Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke officially opened the centre.
• Later that year, on 5 November 1988, the Torres Strait Islander complex was opened by George Mye.
• The Dugong Complex was added and opened on 1 March 1992 by Katharine, Duchess of Kent.
• The Darumbal Convention Centre was opened on 7 August 1994 by Lowitja O'Donoghue.

Honouring Founders

Nola James and Ted Mitchell worked hard to get the centre built. They are remembered at the centre today.

• The main building is named the Nola James Building.
• There is a museum called the Ted Mitchell Gallery. It shows a display called Vanishing Culture of the Sandstone Belt.

Special Events and Milestones

The centre has hosted many important events over the years.

• In 2004, a short film called Dramatically Black - The Djarns Djarns: Shake a leg was made at the centre. It was written and directed by Wayne Blair.
• The Dreamtime Cultural Centre celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2008.
• In 2012, rugby league star Johnathan Thurston visited. He spoke to high school students about the FOGS ARTIE program. This program helps Indigenous students do well in school.
• On 22 June 2016, a special court meeting happened at the centre. A judge decided that the Darumbal People are the legal traditional owners of a large area of land. This land includes Rockhampton, Yeppoon, and Marlborough, Queensland. This decision is called a Native Title Consent.
• The Dreamtime Cultural Centre celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2018.
• In 2020, leaders met to plan for the centre's future. They want to make sure it stays important and interesting for many years to come.