Ian Thorpe’s Fountain for youth is supporting the Aboriginal community of Wugularr/Beswick in establishing and developing the Ghunmarn Cultural Centre.  Fountain for youth provided $120,000 and Credit Suisse added $36,000 to help the community build its first enterprise.  

Ghunmarn, meaning ‘altogether’, is a local initiative led by Djilpin Arts Aboriginal Corporation under the direction of Tom Lewis and Fleur Parry, to develop the artistic ability of Aboriginal children and showcase the outstanding art from this region.

The upper floor of the Centre houses a permanent exhibition, The Blanasi Collection, with paintings by some of Arnhem Land’s most significant artists.

A show room on the ground floor displays the outstanding artworks from local artists, providing a point of sale for their works.

This combination of education, exhibition and commerce will help the Centre achieve self-sufficiency.

The Opening of the Ghunmarn Cultural Centre – Monday 21 May 2007

Ian Thorpe and Jeff McMullen were invited by the Traditional Owners to join in a stirring ceremony as they  erected the Morning Star pole in front of the Centre. 
Victor Hood, spoke of the great pride in seeing the paintings by the old people returned to the community and on show for all to see in the upstairs Gallery. 

Artistic Training and Management:
Local women are being trained in management, stocktaking, retail operations, IT, website development and customer service.
The Ghunmarn Cultural Centre is now at the heart of the Wugularr community and a favourite destination for art lovers.

How do I visit the Ghunmarn Cultural Centre – Find out more: www.djilpinarts.org.au