Thank you!
An interview conducted by Warren Weekly journalist at the time, Melissa Irving, informed an article published by the Warren Weekly on 8 June 2022 entitled A Home for Warraan Widji Arts.
The article begins:
“The Warraan Widji Arts group has found a home, thanks to the generous donation of the old Mechanics Institute by Frank and Marilyn Leach.”
The following excerpts below are taken from the article and provide background as to how we obtained the building and the importance of having a facility which provides functionality and a culturally safe space for our not-for-profit organisation.
“The donation of the building served as the catalyst for the creation of Warraan Widji Arts. Warraan Widji Arts aims to be a creative and performing arts and Wayilwan language hub. The focus of our organisation is Aboriginal youth and community. The Warraan Widji Arts hub will allow us to broaden our current activities. An Aboriginal youth survey conducted by the committee in 2021 indicated a high demand for more opportunities to develop artistic creativity: after school hours, on weekends and in the school holidays. The demand ranges from singing lessons, to developing music practice, storytelling through dance, and theatre production. Once we have a hub to work from our direction will be an evolving process in collaboration with the Aboriginal community.”
Jodie Redman, former Vice President and Secretary
“I am not sure if Marilyn and Frank can understand how much their generosity will significantly change the lives of so many who come through the doors of this building. Once it is transformed into a fit for purpose, high end space anything will be possible for the youth of Warren. They are keen and ready. Growing capacity for transformative change is what Frank and Marilyn have given to the community. The building was officially transferred to us at the end of March 2022.
THANK YOU MARILYN AND FRANK, WE REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR GENEROSITY”
Karlene Irving, former President
