Yued celebrates acquisition of Moora commercial site

Media statement

Moora will see a significant investment by Yued Aboriginal Corporation over the coming year in its newly acquired premises at 19 Dandaragan Street.

Representing the interests of Yued Traditional Owners of 26,000 square kilometres of Boodja, Yued Aboriginal Corporation is set on a path to become a significant landholder and investor in the coastal and Central Midlands.

The property purchase was assisted by a 50% contribution from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation.

The new premises will become an administrative hub for the corporation’s land management, heritage, economic development and community projects.

The next stage will be the appointment of architects to engage in community consultation and design concept drawings for the redevelopment of the site.

Comments attributable to Colin Headland, Yued Elder and Moora resident:

“When I first saw the ‘For Sale’ sign go up I thought this would be the perfect place for our corporation, so I approached Peter.

“It’s in the centre of town. With our name on it, everyone can see it.

“You couldn’t get a better place than here.”

Comments attributable to Rewi Lyall, Chief Executive Officer, Yued Aboriginal Corporation

“Today is an important day for Yued.

“Since starting in the role in February, the local Yued community have been very clear with me in their desire for this acquisition.

“Of course there has to be a Yued Aboriginal Corporation office in Moora, but we wanted to make sure we did it the right way.

“We’re grateful for the support from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation, and pleased that this is an asset owned by Yued Aboriginal Corporation.”

Comments attributable to Peter Johns, owner, Western Decorating:

“Colin first approached me when I put this property on the market three years ago and I was impressed with his passion and commitment to the Yuen community.

“That’s why I’ve been prepared to wait and reject other offers.

“I wanted this to be for Yued, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to make that happen.”

Comments attributable to Jeff Bruce, Elders Real Estate:

“Elders is pleased to have worked with Peter and Yued Aboriginal Corporation on this transaction.

“Not just because we’ve finally got the sale across the line, but because we’re convinced that Yued Aboriginal Corporation will have an important role to play in the regional economy.

“We can’t wait to see how the corporation uses the site and how it builds from here over the decades to come.”

Comments attributable to Joe Morrison, Group Chief Executive Officer, Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation:

“With its mandate to foster the growth of the Indigenous estate across Australia, ‘the ILSC is very happy to support Yued Aboriginal Corporation’s purchase of this property.

“We know Yued have waited a while to revive their interests in Moora, and this step is an important one on the path to greater self-determination and brighter futures for Yued families.”

Download: Yued Aboriginal Corporation media statement (PDF 405KB)