Jacinda Ardern: Hyland Road Reserve plans for Maori community centre
A multi-million dollar cultural centre for western Sydney’s Maori community could also house a top New Zealand outpost under plans discussed with the newly re-elected Prime Minister.
Parramatta
Don't miss out on the headlines from Parramatta . Followed categories will be added to My News.
A multi-million dollar cultural centre for the Maori community could also be an office for the New Zealand consulate under plans slated for Hyland Road Reserve at Greystanes.
Cumberland Council recently granted the non-profit Sydney Marae Alliance (SMA) the eight-hectare parcel of land to be used for cultural activities and possibly for the office of the New Zealand consulate in Sydney.
Developers ICC are in “high-level’’ discussions with NZ Deputy Prime Minister Kelvin Davis and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, for the relocation of the consulate to the SMA precinct.
The “wharenui” building would shift much of the activities at the Sydney Marae Alliance from its spiritual church in Redfern to Greystanes.
ICC chief executive officer Harold Dakin said the centre would be used for language and dance classes as well as medical offices subject to final approval.
ICC associate director and Sydney Alliance volunteer Jackson Tutahi’s Maori heritage has inspired the project, which he said aimed to preserve Maori culture.
“We look forward in delivering a community centre that enhances identify and cultural origins, recognising Cumberland’s first living culture, celebrate strength in diversity, supporting cultural groups and individuals,’’ he said.
“There will be over 200 jobs provided throughout the construction phase process and 80 full-time permanent jobs when completed.”
Mr Dakin ruled out a possible conflict of interest with Mr Tutahi working for ICC and volunteering with the SMA because he “receives no income or any financial benefit’’ for the latter role.
As well as an employment boon, the project could attract up to 60,000 people a year through food festivals, cultural exchange programs, Anzac memorial services, art exhibitions and seminars.
Cumberland Deputy Mayor Eddy Sarkis welcomed the project and said its location so close to Pemulwuy — named after the Aboriginal leader who resisted European settlement until his assasination in 1802 — was appropriated given the Maori and Aboriginal cultures shared so many similarities.
“We have a lot of people of Kiwi descent and I think it’s going to bring them a place to meet, to get things done, a place where they can continue their cultural traditions,’’ Cr Sarkis said.
“In addition to the construction jobs, it’s going to give people a lot of opportunities to work and reflect.
“In this day and age … going back to your grassroots, your heritage and by doing that you’re going to have a much better society.’’
The project could cost between $2 million and $5 million and could be completed in two years.