Yarrabah Foreshore Master Plan

Located within the stunning natural beauty of Yarrabah, the foreshore holds significant cultural importance, serving as a vital link between the community and their enduring connection to Country. Despite colonisation’s impact, the Yarrabah people have maintained a lifestyle honouring their relationship with the land, sea, and sky.

Led by CA Architects and Blaklash, the project emphasised genuine, responsive engagement with the Yarrabah community. Seven sessions with key stakeholders, including the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council, Yarrabah Arts Centre, and Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples, ensured that the revitalisation was not merely about aesthetic improvements but about creating spaces that truly resonate with the community’s identity and lifestyle.

A standout feature of the project is its integration of storytelling and cultural practices into the Masterplan. The design celebrates local traditions by incorporating elements connected to local animal species and creating areas for cultural practices like cooking over open fire along the foreshore. The focus on sustainability is evident in the use of solar lighting and locally-sourced materials, reflecting the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

By embedding cultural values into the design and prioritising sustainability, the project honours Yarrabah’s connection to Country while addressing future challenges. Involving First Nations people at every stage ensured a culturally safe, inclusive process, creating a Masterplan that champions traditional practices and supports the long-term well-being of the Yarrabah community.