Recommended Free Tools
Fremantle’s Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre (WACC) opened in 2014 and marked its tenth anniversary with a community celebration in May 2024. The City of Fremantle describes it as both a place for local Aboriginal people to connect and share culture and a destination for visitors. Its anniversary is a milestone in that continuing role—not a new opening.
What is the Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre?
WACC is a City of Fremantle cultural centre showcasing local Aboriginal art, culture and history. The City says it was the first local government in Western Australia to establish a dedicated Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Its work includes public activities as well as a space for community connection.
Brendan Moore, the City’s Senior Aboriginal Engagement Officer, described that community role this way: “It’s provided a safe space for community to meet and share conversations not usually had on the street.”
Moore also said: “It’s been a launchpad for many emerging Aboriginal careers, an incubator for business ideas and testing the market for local product, and it’s delivered a new program of events for 60 seasons.” The “60 seasons” figure is Moore’s account in the City’s anniversary announcement, not an independent impact measure.
#1 Best Overall
- THE CULTURE MAP
What happened at the 2024 anniversary?
The City’s May 2024 celebration brought together community members and visitors for guest speakers, face painting, a performance by the Mayakeniny Dance Group, art markets, a “Now & Then” photo exhibition and a cultural walking tour. Dr Gerrard Shaw gave the Welcome to Country. The City named Nyoonger Elders Dr Richard Walley, Betty Garlett, Clive Morrison and Sharon Calgaret among those attending, and identified Turid Calgaret as the centre’s coordinator at the time.
Former Fremantle Mayor Dr Brad Pettitt, mayor when the centre opened, reflected on the idea behind it: “It was actually a radical idea at the time, to have a dedicated cultural centre,”
What can visitors do at WACC?
The City lists exhibitions, workshops, film screenings, music and tours among the centre’s activities. Programs coincide with the six Nyoongar seasons: Kambarang, Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru and Djilba. The current event schedule determines what is available on a particular visit.
Artist residency
The centre’s artist-in-residence program offers selected artists a four-week placement, including opportunities for an open studio and community engagement. Check the City’s event listings to see whether an open studio or related activity is scheduled during your visit.
Choosing an event
For a tour, workshop, exhibition, screening or residency event, check the individual listing for the date, any stated cost and whether booking is required. The City also offers venue hire for cultural purposes.
Where is the centre?
WACC is at 12 Captains Lane, Fremantle, in one of the old pilot cottages overlooking Manjaree | Bathers Beach. The City identifies Whadjuk people as the Traditional Owners of the Fremantle/Walyalup area. Manjaree is described by the City as a traditional Nyoongar trading place and campsite.
Rank #4
- Used Book in Good Condition
The cottage belonged to a group built in 1904 for pilots, port workers and their families after the Rottnest Island Pilot Station closed. The building’s history is part of the setting, but WACC’s story is also about living culture and the community activity taking place there.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When is WACC open?
The City’s WACC page gives conflicting weekly hours: one section lists Wednesday–Friday, 10 am–3 pm, while another lists Thursday–Friday, 10 am–3 pm. Because the published information does not resolve the difference, confirm directly with the centre before setting out. Call 08 9432 9669 or email [email protected], and check the City page for current events and visitor details: Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Best Value
- aboriginal
- culture
- Anthropology
- Tribes
- photography
Why the anniversary matters
The 2024 anniversary marked ten years since a dedicated centre opened in Fremantle. The City’s account presents WACC as a place where community connection, cultural activity and opportunities for artists and local businesses meet. Its programs and public events continue within a local history that includes the exclusion of Nyoongar people from Fremantle during part of the twentieth century—a context the City discusses in its Aboriginal history material.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
