24/7/01
Housing and Works Minister Tom Stephens today officially opened the new Bunara Maya Crisis Accommodation Centre in South Hedland.
The 20-bed centre will fill a gap in services for Aboriginal people travelling to the town and offer safe accommodation for visiting mothers and families.
The centre was built on land provided by the Department of Housing and Works, under a joint venture arrangement and construction was funded through the Department's Crisis Accommodation Program.
There was a significant contribution by the Bloodwood Tree Association Incorporated of $220,000. This contribution was funded through a grant by Aboriginal Hostels Ltd.
Mr Stephens said the project was a fine example of the State Government working together with a community organisation to provide a much needed accommodation facility.
"The new building in South Hedland replaces the existing old hostel in Port Hedland," he said.
"Bloodwood Tree have chosen to transfer the existing Port Hedland hostel name, Bunara Maya, to the new facility in South Hedland.
"What was a small house some 50 years old comprising four rooms and eight beds has now been replaced by a modern facility which can accommodate 20 people at any one time.
"The successful joint venture has resulted in a fine short-term accommodation facility which will help address the issue of homeless and itinerant people coming into or passing through the town.
"I congratulate the Bloodwood Tree Association on its commitment to provide this high level of accommodation for Aboriginal families, allowing them to stay in a safe and comfortable environment."
The Minister also thanked local builder Pilbara Constructions Pty Ltd, and Aboriginal Hostels Limited, which provided part of the capital costs of construction and ongoing funding for the operation of the hostel.
The hostel will continue to be managed by the Bloodwood Tree Association Incorporated, which has managed the facility for the past 10 years.
Media contact: Julie Cole 9213 6500
