Published on Monday, 24 October 2022 at 11:50:25 AM
Busselton’s new Performance Space and Convention Centre is a state-of-the-art venue taking shape on Queen Street in the centre of Busselton’s cultural, commercial and foreshore precincts.
Following extensive consultation with stakeholders, Aboriginal Advisory group and local community, City of Busselton Councillors have endorsed the venue name: Saltwater.
The City of Busselton recognised the opportunity to create a powerful, meaningful and inspiring name for the venue. The name acknowledges the Wadandi (Saltwater) people who are the traditional custodians of this part of the South West of Western Australia. The significant coastal areas and inland estuaries and rivers are important to the Wadandi people, as water is regarded as the connection between sea life and land life. The Saltwater connection extends to everyone living on this land.
Dr Wayne Webb, Local Aboriginal Elder said “The name Saltwater is good because everything around us here connects us back to the ocean – the wetlands, fishing, boating. It’s why we are here.”
Sandra Hill, Local Aboriginal Elder and artist said “Saltwater has relevance for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. People can relate to it. Saltwater is exciting and different. In time Busselton will become known for it.”
Mayor Grant Henley said “The Council felt that it was important the name of the venue be something that would resonate locally. A name that is unique and intriguing that encourages all members of our community to come and experience the space. As a coastal town, Saltwater is one of the reasons why we choose to live in Busselton. The coast, estuaries and rivers are part of our everyday lives. We are confident that this venue will be a catalyst in bringing our community together.”
Mayor Henley further said. “The City of Busselton sits on Wadandi Country and acknowledges the strong synergies between both parties. The name also represents the City’s ongoing commitment to moving past acknowledgement and into meaningful reconciliation with the local First Nations people.”
Designed with multi-functionality in mind, Saltwater Busselton will attract world class entertainment and business events to Busselton, which is already renowned as the Events Capital of WA. It is set to open in early 2024.
This project is funded by the Australian Government, Lotterywest and Rio Tinto.
Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Strategic Community Plan (2021 - 2031) Key Themes Lifestyle: A place that is relaxed, safe and friendly with services and facilities that support our lifestyle.
Photo attached for general use. Pictured: Mayor Grant Henley; Director of Community and Commercial Services Naomi Searle; Manager Events and Cultural Services Maxine Palmer, Councillors Paul Carter and Phill Cronin; and Venue Manager Cultural Precinct Sharon Custers.
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Find out more about Saltwater
Media enquiries can be directed to pr@busselton.wa.gov.au
Operational enquiries can be directed to melissa.pontague@busselton.wa.gov.au
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