
The temporary closure of Brambuk in Halls Gap is being seen by Parks Victoria as a chance to reinvigorate the Aboriginal cultural centre.
The Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre closed temporarily on July 1 while Parks Victoria undertakes an assessment of its infrastructure and facilities.
Parks Victoria Regional Director Jason Borg said it was an opportunity to restore the Brambuk Centre and build new opportunities for the involvement of Traditional Owners.
"Given the formation of a Strategic Partnership Committee of Traditional Owner corporations, and with the Grampians Peaks Trail and a new park management plan on the horizon, it's an opportune time to look at options to reinvigorate Brambuk and build new opportunities for the involvement of Traditional Owner corporations," he said.
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"Within a few years it is hoped that the centre is fully-managed by a Traditional Owner enterprise.
"Until then, Parks Victoria will focus on working with Traditional Owners to position Brambuk as a place that delivers long-term benefits to the community, local businesses, Traditional Owners and the national park."
The original operators and its Aboriginal communities have managed the centre since 1989, making it Australia's oldest Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
The Brambuk Cultural Centre used multimedia shows, art exhibitions, artefact displays, cultural talks and activities to educate people on the history and culture of the Jardwadjali, Djab Wurrung and aboriginal communities of south-western Victoria.
In a statement on Facebook, Brambuk Cultural Centre co-operative said they will no longer be operating the centre due to their permit not being renewed by Parks Victoria.
"In our 30 years we have provided hundreds of aboriginal people with employment and training in hospitality and tourism ... and just as importantly educated and informed millions of visitors about the Aboriginal culture," said a spokesperson for the Brambuk Cultural Centre.
"Parks Victoria with their Traditional Owner partners will also be refreshing visitor services, including cultural programs and will advise the community and tourism industry as soon as these services are up and running again."
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