Official opening of meeting place for Aboriginal women at Bandyup prison

4/12/98

Justice Minister Peter Foss today joined prominent Aboriginal people to officially open a meeting place for spiritual and cultural activities within Bandyup Women's Prison.

"This initiative is of major significance for all Aboriginal women in custody and recognises the need for meeting the cultural and spiritual wellbeing of all individuals, especially within a prison environment," Mr Foss said.

"The meeting place, provides a specific area for Aboriginal women to meet on a casual basis in addition to being a venue for ceremonial and cultural activities."

The women prisoners were involved in the design of the half-brick, half-thatch semi-circle structure which is based on the traditional bower shed of Aboriginal communities. It includes a firestone and painted paving bricks representing the different regions of the State.

A similar area for cultural activities has been established for male Aboriginal prisoners at Greenough Regional Prison.

"The meeting place will be used primarily by the Aboriginal women, but is also available for use by other prisoners as well," Mr Foss said.

"Considering the disproportionate number of Aboriginal prisoners in custody in Western Australia, it is important to provide opportunities for Aboriginal culture to be celebrated."

Media contact: Chris Morris 9321 2222