Grant helps Roelands Village find a place in the future - 19 December 2008
Roelands Village is shaking off its past to become a place of opportunity for Aboriginal people, some of whom were among the hundreds who spent their childhoods there as members of the Stolen Generation.
Aided by a grant of $53,000 through the South West Development Commission’s Regional Development Scheme, work is underway to refurbish the former mission’s ageing buildings.
Future plans for the buildings, which are located amongst the rolling hills of the small South West town, include accommodation for school camps, venues for corporate functions and bases for cultural groups.
Roelands Village manager Les Wallam said he hoped the refurbishment would lead to the creation of full-time employment positions.
“Firstly, we want to preserve the historical value of Roelands,” he said.
“Secondly, we want to refurbish each of the buildings and create employment opportunities. I would like to see in maybe five years time, we’ve got 50 people working here full-time.”
…ENDS
Media contact:
Teneille Watson
Community Relations Officer