Gunnedah Aboriginal Family and Child Centre
Dept of Family and Community Services
(GAO project architect - design and construction documentation)
completed 2013
Awarded the AIA Blacket Prize 2015
$3mil
Images Brett Boardman
This child and family centre is one of 6 centres GAO have designed and documented for Aboriginal communities throughout NSW. This initiative will allow Aboriginal children to be exposed to early education in a culture and community sensitive environment. The inclusion of a Family Health component in these projects is aimed at addressing the unique health challenges faced by these communities.
An existing eucalypt has been retained on site as a focal point for an outdoor community hub at the front of the building. This outdoor space has developed as a reference to local indigenous history concerning defeat of a warring tribe at the Wallaby Trap at the base of Porcupine Hill.
The childcare component of the project faces due north and includes a generous verandah. The entire
complex looks north across dressage arenas toward the Gunnedah showground.
Sustainable design has been addressed throughout the complex.