With Ngamawari set to commence construction in early 2026, we look back at the story behind the culturally significant public park coming to Acton Waterfront.
This park, whose name means ‘cave place’, was gifted by the Ngunnawal community in 2023 to honour the cultural significance of the limestone caves submerged during the creation of Lake Burley Griffin.
This powerful gesture is symbolic of the strong involvement of the First Nations community through each stage the park's design.
First Nations co-design and community engagement
Image: a 2023 workshop with Ngunnawal creatives to develop ideas for First Nations artworks to be installed throughout Ngamawari.
We have worked closely with First Nations community members and artists to co-design Ngamawari, embedding self-determination and cultural awareness into every aspect of the park's development.
This collaboration not only preserves cultural heritage but also strengthens community bonds and promotes long-term stewardship of the place.
City Renewal CEO Craig Gillman emphasised the importance of this co-design process.
“By working hand-in-hand with the Ngunnawal community, we are creating a park that not only honours their rich cultural heritage but also establishes a unique identity for Ngamawari that all Canberrans can cherish," Mr Gillman said.
"This park will be a place of learning, reflection and connection for everyone.”
Reconciliation through design
Image: A sketch from one of the Ngunnawal creatives who took part in the 2023 workshops.
The development of Ngamawari has made an important contribution to reconciliation.
By truthfully sharing Ngunnawal history and empowering local First Nations community members to shape how their history is represented in the landscape, Ngamawari contributes to a deeper understanding and respect for Ngunnawal culture.
This includes the celebration of Ngunnawal stories told through the large-scale artworks coming to the park.
Co-design process
The co-design process with First Nations community members and artists was comprehensive and inclusive. It began with a ‘Walk on Country’, allowing the design team to gain a deeper understanding of the Ngunnawal community’s enduring connection to the land.
This was followed by a ‘Design Jam’ and intensive workshops over an 18-month period, focused on Ngunnawal knowledge related to truth-telling, Country, cultural practices, and historical interpretation.
These collaborative sessions were integral in establishing key design principles, including:
*Supporting biodiversity and climate resilience with native plantings
*Integrating Ngunnawal storytelling to enhance cultural and educational value
*Exploring cultural walking tours and community-based activations
*Providing opportunities for construction internships, commercial ventures, and other pathways for Ngunnawal-led prosperity
Broader public consultation
The broader public consultation process was equally thorough, ensuring that the community's vision was well-represented in the final design. Since 2004, the ACT Government and the National Capital Authority (NCA) have engaged with the community to address local needs and aspirations for the West Basin.
This engagement included workshops, focus groups, pop-ups, and online surveys, which helped influence key aspects of the park. The most recent engagement process, conducted from May 2022 to December 2023, received significant community input, with 7,398 views, 3,020 visitors, and 177 contributions from 71 individual contributors.
This input, combined with targeted stakeholder engagement with First Nations groups, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups, people with disabilities and the general community, informed the final design of Ngamawari.
Key features of Ngamawari
The lakeside park is being delivered in two phases. The first phase of construction started in 2024.
Fencing around the Acton Waterfront site has now been removed to enable temporary access to this lakeside area until the next phase of building Ngamawari commences in early 2026.
Features that the community can enjoy until 2026 include:
*Accessible paths with new lighting, connecting with the existing toilets.
*A drinking water fountain with a pet bowl for your furry companion.
*Extensive grassed areas seeded with natives and meadow flowers.
*New shade structures.
*Plenty of parking at the northern edge of the site.
The permanent 30,000 square metre park, designed with local Ngunnawal community members, will feature:
*Accessible spaces for all, ensuring inclusivity
*Ngunnawal stories and artwork integrated into the design, honouring culture and heritage
*Increased green space and water features, providing a beautiful and natural environment
*Two pavilions, green spaces, an adventure playground, and food and beverage options, making the park a versatile community space
*Sustainable design elements to enhance shade and reduce hard surfaces
Looking Forward
As we approach the next milestone for this significant part of our city, we invite all Canberrans to join us in enjoying this green lakeside space.
The park is a symbol of our commitment to reconciliation, community engagement and cultural representation. We look forward to seeing Ngamawari become a beloved space for all Canberrans and visitors, promoting a sense of connection and understanding for generations to come.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
