6.+Traditional+History

__The Bangerang Cultural Centre:__ Originally known as the 'Aboriginal Keeping Place', the //Bangerang Cultural Centre// is located at the south-eastern end of the Shepparton Parkside Gardens (previously known as the International Village). In 1974 an idea to create an International Village to boost tourism to Shepparton was proposed and various cultural groups were approached to be a part of this within the Shepparton area. The significant building was officially opened in 1982 and was designed by famous Victorian architect Fredrick Romberg, with the help of local respected Bangerang Elder John (Sandy) Atkinson.

The //Bangerang Cultural Centre// was the first Aboriginal cultural centre of its time to be built outside of a capital city and this had a significant impact in forming the all important first steps to a reconciliation amongst Aboriginal and non-Aborginal people. Recently, the museum has gained inclusion onto the Victorian Heritage Register for its historical, social and architectrual importance.

The //Bangerang Cultural Centre's// **Misson Statement** is as follows: 'To provide an Aboriginal interpretive centre that will educate persons of all ages, backgrounds, physical abilities and cultures and inspire them to explore and discover Aboriginal culture in a creative, safe, environment, where learning is fun' ([|www.bangerang.org.au]).

The museum is a celebration of Aboriginal culture, inviting all people to come and gain an appreciation of Aboriginal history and way of life. The facility opens up a world of educational opportunities, with many local schools benefiting from excursions. The centre hosts an influential collection of artefacts and artworks from various Aboriginal communities around Australia, with a special focus on local communities around the Shepparton region. Many of these and information on artists can be found on the //Bangerang Cultural Centre's// [|website]

__NAIDOC week:__ Shepparton celebrates NAIDOC week in the first full week of July each year. NAIDOC week is a celebration of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, where all Australians are encouraged to participate in.

As previously mentioned, Shepparton has one of the highest populations of Aboriginal people which has encouraged a large number of schools in Shepparton to hold NAIDOC week with high regard, participating in a wide variety of activities across the week. Various community groups/organisations also hold events within NAIDOC week recognising the contributions of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their wonderful culture.

One organisation in particular that takes great pride in helping others to celebrate during this week is the //Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-op.// Back in 2007, during the 50th year of celebrating NAIDOC week, the //Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-op// ran the following events from Sunday 8th - Saturday 14th July: Family day, Flag raising ceremony, Afternoon tea, Bangerang Cultural Centre BBQ lunch, Children's day, GV Community Health BBQ lunch and finally the NAIDOC ball.