On Yorta Yorta Country in Shepparton, regional Victoria, a project of profound cultural and educational significance has taken shape. The Munarra Centre of Regional Excellence (MCRE), Australia's first Indigenous-led aggregator of pathways and tertiary education, stands as a symbol of First Nations resilience, knowledge, and leadership. This pioneering centre offers culturally integrated education, sporting, and public spaces, all while fostering opportunities and prosperity for the Goulburn Murray region’s Indigenous community.

The project, delivered by Indigenous-owned TVN On-Country, marks the largest construction contract ever awarded by the Victorian Government to a First Nations company. Supported by a $30 million investment from the Victorian Government and an additional $6 million from the University of Melbourne, the MCRE reflects a collaborative effort aimed at transforming the future for Yorta Yorta peoples and beyond.

A Building with Deep Cultural Significance

The design of the Munarra Centre is as symbolic as the work that will be carried out within its walls. Inspired by the shape of a river turtle and the colours of the Aboriginal flag, the building speaks to the enduring connection between the Yorta Yorta community and the land. The architecture, a co-design collaboration between ARM Architecture and landscape architects Bush Projects, incorporates cultural references in every aspect, from the central courtyard to the firepit, fostering a space where learning, culture, and community can thrive.

The Munarra Centre’s vibrant design pays homage to Yorta Yorta Country and the stories of its people. The Nanyak Wall, a photographic timeline of the community's history, is just one of the many features connecting the present with the past.

Lysaght’s Role: Supplying Innovation and Quality

Lysaght is proud to have supplied roofing and walling products for this transformative project. For a project of such importance, Lysaght’s high-quality roofing and walling products were selected to ensure lasting durability and aesthetic appeal, perfectly complementing the Centre’s vision.

LYSAGHT KLIP-LOK® 700 High Strength was chosen for the roofing, a profile renowned for its durability and clean, architectural lines. The roofing was installed by KW Roofing and features a striking colour palette, including:

• COLORBOND® steel Night Sky® - representing the deep, rich black of the Aboriginal flag. 
• Dulux Camelia Red - a custom shade symbolising the red of the earth and the Aboriginal flag's red stripe.

These colours, woven into the building’s roof, create a powerful visual symbol of cultural pride, visible from above.

LYSAGHT CUSTOM ORB® and LYSAGHT ENSEAM® walling systems were used to clad the exterior, offering both functionality and style. The versatile LYSAGHT CUSTOM ORB® profile, with its iconic corrugated appearance, ensures the building will withstand the elements, while the modern, sleek lines of LYSAGHT ENSEAM® contribute to the building’s striking silhouette.

Building Pathways for the Future

The Munarra Centre is not just a building; it is a vision for a better future—one where Indigenous knowledge, culture, and leadership are central to the way education is delivered. The Centre will provide culturally grounded education pathways for a variety of disciplines, including health, community services, and early childhood education, setting a new standard for First Nations-led education in Australia.

While Lysaght’s contribution focused on supplying quality building materials, we recognise the importance of supporting projects that celebrate Australia’s rich cultural heritage. The Munarra Centre of Regional Excellence is set to be a national example of cultural empowerment, community cohesion, and shared prosperity.

As the Centre prepares to open its doors, excitement continues to build within the Yorta Yorta community and across Australia. It is anticipated that the Munarra Centre will attract significant media attention and interest from educational and cultural institutions nationwide, marking a pivotal moment in Australia’s journey towards recognising and embracing the contributions of First Nations peoples.

Conclusion

Lysaght is honoured to have played a part in providing the materials for the Munarra Centre of Regional Excellence. This project, with its deep cultural significance and forward-looking vision, aligns with our values of quality, sustainability, and community support. We are proud that our products will help ensure the Centre stands strong for generations, serving as a place where knowledge, culture, and community can flourish.