Port Adelaide is about to welcome something truly special. A landmark $35 million cultural centre will officially open this Sunday 1 June on the banks of the Port River, offering a new chapter in reconciliation, regeneration, and regional pride.
Yitpi Yartapuultiku, meaning the ‘Soul of Port Adelaide’ in Kaurna language, is a place to celebrate the region’s diverse culture and Kaurna heritage. Built on Kaurna Yarta the project was developed in collaboration with Kaurna Custodians and the Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Working Group, the City of PAE, Ashley Halliday Architects and WAX Design.
Launched by the City of PAE, the project is the largest ever undertaken by Council and launching during National Reconciliation Week makes its opening all the more meaningful in amplifying the powerful message of unity and healing.
Inside, the centre will feature immersive exhibitions, educational programs, guided cultural tours, art installations and nature play spaces. There are also flexible meeting rooms, a commercial kitchen, and multipurpose spaces making it ideal for any type of gathering.
Step outside and the experience continues, with revitalised parklands, making the precinct as much a weekend destination as it is a community hub.
“Yitpi Yartapuultiku is a place for everyone to come together to share life with one another,” says City of PAE Mayor, Claire Boan.
“People can enjoy play areas, sculptural art, and a revitalised public parkland featuring large event spaces, walking paths, fishing spots, and dolphin viewing areas. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, flexible meeting spaces, and a commercial kitchen, making it ideal for any type of gathering.
“Yitpi Yartapuultiku is a space where all people can come together to learn, share and grow.”
The space is the result of years of collaboration, community input and cultural leadership, bringing together First Nations knowledge with contemporary design in a space that honours the past and looks to the future.
“The opening of this cultural centre on Kaurna Yarta is a powerful step forward for our people and the wider community,” say Aboriginal Elders and design contributors Uncle Lewis and Aunty Pat Waria-Read.
“This is more than just a building – it is a living space where Kaurna knowledge, language and stories can be shared respected and passed on to future generations. It stands as a place of truth telling, healing and pride. We welcome everyone to walk with us, to learn from this land and its First Peoples, and to help carry our culture forward with strength and unity.”
The architecture of the project speaks to both cultural significance and contemporary excellence. Designed by Ashley Halliday Architects in close partnership with Kaurna voices, the built form is grounded in Country and story.
“This project stands on the shoulders of those Elders and senior people who fought for recognition, truth and justice on and around Yertabulti,” says Ashley Halliday, Director and lead architect.
“Walking together, PAE and the Aboriginal community have demonstrated great vision, leadership, courage, patience, and generosity in realising Yitpi Yartapuultiku. Yitpi Yartapuultiku has been designed with the collective skill, knowledge, and passionate contributions of many, underpinned by strong Aboriginal cultural direction and PAE support.”
That philosophy extended to the outdoor spaces too, led by WAX Design’s Warwick Keates, who says First Nations guidance was central to creating a culturally safe and meaningful place to gather.
“The knowledge that was generously shared by First Nations cultural advisors was critical in creating a culturally safe place to gather, practice and connect to Country and culture,” says Warwick.
“This project is a testament to the visionary thinking, generosity, and courage of the Kaurna community. Being part of this incredible co-design process, and seeing Yitpi Yartapuultiku come to life, has been an honour and privilege.”
The result is truly captivating.
The Living Shoreline surrounding the centre, supported by a $4.5 million contribution from the Commonwealth Government, will add another layer of impact, enhancing biodiversity and resilience across in the area.
Yitpi Yartapuultiku isn’t just a cultural space, it’s a catalyst for growth and a symbol of community. From job creation and tourism to education and environmental responsibility, it’s designed to have lasting impact, shaping the future of Port Adelaide and the state as a whole.
If you’re looking for a place that blends cultural roots with innnovative design, a space where you can learn, reflect, play, and connect, this is it. Yitpi Yartapuultiku is a place for everyone, and it’s just getting started.
The centre opens to the public this Sunday with a cultural ceremony of performances, exhibitions, self-guided trails, Aboriginal maker stalls and family-friendly activities!
WHAT: Yitpi Yartapuultiku
WHEN: Launch date, Jun 1, 2pm – 5pm
WHERE: Corner of Old Port Road and Bower Road, Port Adelaide
For details on the launch, click here.
For more info on the project, click here.
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