Martuku Jijiku Maya opens in Newman

Last Friday was a special day at The Fulcrum Agency with the opening of Martuku Jijiku Maya, a hostel for Martu secondary students in Newman, WA. The celebration was attended by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan, Board members of Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation (JYAC), members of the Martu community and prospective families.

Martuku Jijiku Maya came to us through our colleagues at Engawa Architects; we developed their design and managed the project through to completion. The spaces are domestic in scale and feeling, while dashes of colour help to distinguish between buildings.

Described by Minister MacTiernan as a ‘game changer for kids growing up in Martu communities’, the hostel will provide young Martu people with access to quality education whilst remaining close to their families and Country. Students will be educated in Martu lore and the Australian curriculum – enabling them to walk successfully in both worlds.

‘The Martu Student Hostel will be a place for learning and for young people to become the Martu leaders of tomorrow.’ JYAC Chair Melvin Farmer

It is always a privilege to be involved in projects that positively impact the lives of children living in First Nations communities. You can read the full case study on here .