Ngaladjima is planted with 24 varieties of vegetation significant to the Ngunnawal peoples and is a space to nurture the living cultural connection between Indigenous culture and the Ngunnawal land with the campus community.
Elder in-residence
UC’s Elder in-residence, Aunty Roslyn Brown (Aunty Ros), is a Ngunnawal woman descended from the Bell and Brown families of the Ngunnawal people. Based in the Ngunnawal Centre, she provides Indigenous students with confidential support when they need it most.
Aunty Ros also encourages and promotes an understanding of and respect for Indigenous perspectives, cultures and values. This means that non-Indigenous students can also seek guidance on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander customs and protocols.
Yarning circles
Yarning circles are held regularly by the Ngunnawal Centre Team and are also being introduced across the five UC Faculties under the leadership of UC Indigenous Alumni, Dr Wayne Applebee (Uncle Wayne) and Dr Paul Collis (Uncle Paul).
Artwork and cultural spaces
UC is dedicated to ensuring a culturally safe and welcoming space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the community.
This is achieved by incorporating palettes, language, art and plantings throughout the built environment.
Aboriginal art is rich in symbolism and storytelling. Every shape has a meaning, representing an overall story.
Ngunnawal Centre pillars
Beginning in 2021 as part of NAIDOC Week, each year a multidisciplinary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist paints a structural pillar outside of the Ngunnawal Centre.
Second Skin – Karla Dickens
Representing a warrior, ‘Second Skin’ by Wiradjuri artist Karla Dickens was purchased by University of Canberra and has pride of place in front of the Ngunnawal Centre.
Campus artwork
As you explore Bruce campus, you might come across various works of art by Indigenous artists, including contemporary Aboriginal artist Danielle Mate-Sullivan.
If you have questions, need support, or want to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students or staff, please contact the Ngunnawal Centre.
Ground Floor, UC Lodge, Telita Street, Bruce Campus
(02) 6201 2998
Students: Ngunnawal@canberra.edu.au
Staff and external contacts: Ngunnawaladmin@canberra.edu.au
