Council undertook community consultation earlier in 2022 on the leasing of the land and received 13 submissions from residents, businesses and organisations regarding its intention to enter into an Agreement for Lease with Munarra Limited, to realise the MCRE.
Council officers have considered and reviewed submissions received. In response, Council officers prepared a Conversation Report outlining the consultation process, contents of submissions and Council officers’ responses to each of the concerns raised.
The MCRE will be a state-of-the-art nationally-significant centre designed as a hub of connection and transformation for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people across Australia. It is intended that the MCRE complex will be run by Indigenous-led Munarra Limited, a not-for-profit entity that is a partnership of Rumbalara Football and Netball Club, the University of Melbourne and Kaiela Institute.
The MCRE will provide a place and space of cultural affirmation, identity and strength with national pathways and a university campus, providing a culturally safe space for multiple education and training providers (e.g. University of Melbourne, La Trobe University and GOTAFE).
“The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence will be a national first. It will be an Indigenous-led sporting and education precinct that will provide a hub of connection and transformation for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people across Australia” Mayor Cr, Shane Sali said.
“It will provide the opportunity to enhance and celebrate Aboriginal cultural identity, with improvements in health, education and employment opportunities for Indigenous people”
The Conversation Report and other relevant information can be found on Council’s ‘Shaping Greater Shepp’ website.