A new tour bus will enable Dja Dja Wurrung enterprise DUMAWUL to connect both visitors and locals with authentic, Djaara-led cultural experiences, and has been purchased thanks to a $200,000 grant from Bendigo Bank Community Foundation.
With wheelchair and mobility-aid access, the new Toyota Coaster will offer inclusive participation for visitors to the region, as well as for Dja Dja Wurrung Elders and community members.
The increased transport capability will enable visitors to travel to DUMAWUL tours across the region, which may encourage increased visitor stay on Djaara Country. It will also enable DUMAWUL to better meet the needs and expectations of tour participants by providing an enhanced service.
A striking feature of the vehicle is the exterior artwork by Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta artist and educator Troy Firebrace. Initially created for Bendigo Bank’s 2023 Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan to signify the start of the Bank’s reconciliation journey, the piece has been adapted to represent movement and travel across Djaara Country.
David Impey, Bendigo Bank’s Chief Executive for Bendigo Bank Community Foundation, highlighted the Bank’s commitment to genuine community partnership and reconciliation.
“We are proud to back local initiatives that strengthen social connection and create lasting impact,” Mr Impey said.
“Bendigo is our home and we deeply value our relationship with DJAARA and their leadership across the region. Reconciliation is about meaningful action and enduring partnerships, and this new vehicle will help support DJAARA in sharing rich cultural knowledge, caring for community, and strengthening regional connection.”
DJAARA Group Chief Executive Officer Cassandra Lewis said the new minibus will provide vital transport capability for their growing range of community and educational initiatives.
“A central priority for DJAARA is ensuring we have the operational capacity to share cultural knowledge and deliver programs across the region,” Ms Lewis said.
“We deliver a broad suite of tours, educational workshops, and cultural immersion experiences for schools, community organisations, and corporate groups. This new accessible minibus will allow us to transport groups seamlessly across Country, while creating opportunities to expand our cultural offerings into the future.
“We sincerely thank Bendigo Bank for their generous investment and look forward to seeing this vehicle become a familiar sight across Dja Dja Wurrung Country and Central Victoria.”
Related Articles
-
Bendigo Bank extends Bendigo Spirit sponsorship
Official Partner of the Bendigo Spirit in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) will continue for the team’s milestone 20th season. -
Benefit Bendigo grant recipients announced as distributions exceed $160,000
Bendigo Bank’s partnership with Benefit Bendigo has now delivered over $160,000 in funding for local community and not-for-profit organisations. -
Bendigo Bank champions inclusion in grassroots sport
Bendigo Bank is poised to break down barriers and create safer spaces for LGBTQIA+ athletes to play, connect, and belong through a new sponsorship.
