Gunggandji
Queensland
Far North Queensland
The Gindaja Training and Accommodation facility in Yarrabah is designed to support culturally safe healing and rehabilitation within a First Nations-led model of care. POD was engaged as principal consultant architect and landscape architect to deliver a staged masterplan comprising a new training centre, accommodation and refurbishment of existing facilities.
Developed through an extensive co-design process with Gindaja’s Board, staff and community stakeholders, the project responds to Country, culture and climate. Buildings and landscape are integrated, creating attractive spaces for gathering, reflection and connection to surrounding Country. Spatial planning prioritises operational clarity, flexibility and cultural preferences, supporting both therapeutic and communal activities.
Cultural identity is embedded throughout the project through collaboration with Yarrabah Arts Centre. Artwork features the story of Gindaja, the male cassowary and protector on Gunggandji Country. Delivered by an Indigenous-owned builder, the project provides enduring social, cultural and economic value for the Yarrabah community.
Gindaja’s vision for this project was to create safe, culturally grounded spaces that honour Country and strengthen the healing journey for our clients. Previous outdated facilities urgently needed renewal. Through Queensland Health funding and our partnership with POD, the process became a truly collaborative and culturally respectful journey. POD ensured our board, staff, community and local artists were deeply engaged, embedding ownership and local stories into the design. The new training facility and accommodation exceed expectations. Clients feel grateful, uplifted and proud of these beautiful buildings, which now reflect who we are and support recovery in a dignified way.
Allison Stout, Architect, Project Manager and Superintendent (construction stage)
Belinda Allwood, Architect and Landscape Architect
Ellen Buttrose, Design Architect
Rohanna Fullarton, Project Architect
Shaneen Fantin, Project Manager, design stages
Genevieve Hoeben, Project Architect
STP Consultants, Structural Engineer
STP Consultants, Civil Consultant
HK Solutions, Services Consultant
Gilboy Hydralic Solutions, Hydraulic Consultant
Veris, Land surveyor
All Construction Approvals, Building Surveyor
Turner and Townsend, Quantity Surveyor
People Oriented Design pty ltd, Landscape Consultant
Viridis, ESD Consultant
Thurri Energy, Indigenous owned solar company (solar system donation)