Bunbury’s youth precinct named ‘Koolambidi Woola’ to celebrate culture and community

The newest addition to Bunbury’s foreshore has been officially named, the youth precinct to be called Koolambidi Woola. The name means “celebrating young people” in the Noongar language — Koolambidi meaning “young people aged 12 to 25 years” and Woola meaning “celebrate”. The name for the precinct, which features a multi-sports court, parkour areas, mini-golf, a youth services building, beach climbing net, event and performance space — was chosen after consultation with the community and local Noongar Elders. Bunbury Youth Mayor Mikaela Kerwin said using a Noongar name had been important to everyone involved. “During consultation, everyone we spoke to wanted the name to be in Noongar language which is a great outcome and also a way to celebrate our connection to the land,” Miss Kerwin said. “We used ‘celebration’ because we wanted the community to know Koolambidi Woola is not just for physical activity or playing, it’s about celebrating all members of our community and a place where we can all come together to do so.” The project was funded through $4.5 million from Bunbury City Council, a $2.5m grant from Lotterywest, $1.2m from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and a grant from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. Bunbury MLA Don Punch congratulated everyone involved in the project on delivering the new community space. “The youth precinct is a fantastic addition to what is on offer for young people here in Bunbury, and the City of Bunbury should be applauded for its commitment to the project,” he said. Forrest MHR Nola Marino was impressed. “I am delighted that Koolambidi Woola is already entertaining young people of different ages,” she said. “And I’m proud of the former Coalition government’s contribution to bring this project to reality.”