Warnkurr Sports and Social Club is a local gem. Established in 1987 – the club provides a space for the community and tourists to gather, have a yarn and share a meal.
Located in Kalkarindji, on Gurindji Country, approximately 400km South of Katherine, Northern Territory, the popular hang-out serves up to 200 guests each year and is run by 30 employees.
However, in January 2023, the club experienced devastating flooding which caused significant damage to the premises’ building, plants, equipment and stock.
After applying for the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation’s (ILSC) Emergency Response Program, Warnkurr was awarded $20,000, providing the club urgent funds to cover damage costs.
Repair works included an extensive clean-up of the property and necessary remediation to rebuild and restore damaged areas.
Gurindji Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Des Green, said the corporation is immensely grateful to the ILSC for their generous grant.
“The ILSC’s support not only helps in repairing the physical damage but strengthens our community’s resilience and spirit. It reinforces the value of unity and solidarity during times of crisis,” said Mr Green.
“I extend our sincere thanks to the ILSC for their compassion and understanding of the challenges our community faces.
“This grant will make a meaningful difference, enabling us to recover and revitalise our sports and social club, ensuring it continues to be a vital hub for our community.”
ILSC Group Chief Executive Officer, Joe Morrison, said the ILSC was proud to assist the Warnkurr Sports and Social Club during their time of need.
“By providing our emergency response funding, the ILSC is able to support Indigenous corporations get back on their feet following natural disasters,” said Mr Morrison.
“This grant will assist Warnkurr’s self-determination. We have faith that they will return stronger and much more resilient as a result of this hardship.”
The ILSC’s Emergency Response Program was launched to assist Indigenous corporations whose property had been affected by the 2023 floods.
In July 2023, the program was restructured to cover all natural disasters, called the Quick Response Grants Program. This restructure is a rolling, annual initiative.
