Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence

The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence is a world-class education, sporting, and public gathering space that honours the world’s oldest living culture. The project is founded on Yorta Yorta self-determination, cultural continuity, and truthtelling. Deep listening and co-design shaped its form, embedding identity and intergenerational knowledge-sharing. The organic structure, reminiscent of a shell and shield, and the Aboriginal flag from above, brings the roof to the ground, creating a colonnade that mediates between built and natural spaces. It embodies strength, pride, welcome, and support. Public and Cultural Benefits The project establishes a new heart within the Shepparton Sports Precinct, previously isolated from the wider community. It embraces public engagement through welcoming gathering spaces, weather-protected colonnade, and indigenous planting, creating a learning landscape for storytelling, bush tucker, and ceremony. Upgrades to Rumbalara FNC, including new seating and BBQ areas, strengthen community pride, while the blue bridge links the club to the wider sports precinct for the first time. Large-scale artworks and embedded narratives reinforce self-determination, celebrating Yorta Yorta culture in Shepparton’s social fabric. Relationship of Built Form to Context Munarra integrates with its surroundings by bridging new and existing community spaces. Upgrades to Rumbalara FNC provide weather-protected spaces for Elders to engage with football and netball. The southern building’s form celebrates cultural identity, while the Nanyak Wall links past and present. Indigenous planting and shaded learning areas strengthen connection to Country, building upon the existing fabric. Integration of Allied Disciplines Munarra’s success stems from deep collaboration and co-design. Landscape architects shaped the surrounding and central landscape, embedding Indigenous planting and cultural narratives. Two arts organisations were instrumental in curating and embedding artwork from community and elders into almost all aspects of the design, including the Nanyak Wall. A majority Indigenous-owned contractor delivered the build. Direct engagement with Yorta Yorta Elders and traditional owners throughout ensured an authentic, community-led outcome, embedding culture into every aspect of the design. Cost/Value Outcome Munarra delivers high impact within a $35 million AUD budget through use of cost-effective materials in creative ways and a ‘fabric first’ approach to efficiency and sustainability. Standard construction ensures durability, while bespoke cultural elements like the Nanyak Wall and integrated artwork ensure a distinct identity. Extensive consultation with Elders, artists, sports clubs, schools, and community groups ensured the design meets broad social, educational, and cultural needs. Client and Community Response Early feedback highlights a thriving community embracing Munarra’s new facilities. The football club now hosts regional finals, attracting record crowds. Embedded storytelling in the building and landscape resonates deeply with its users. Existing enterprises at Rumbalara FNC have space to grow, strengthening their impact. The project reflects a deep sense of pride, ownership, and a lasting connection to place.