Donation of Ground-Penetrating Radar Equipment
Media statement
Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation Celebrates Donation of Ground-Penetrating Radar Equipment from Oriental Investments Group.
BUNBURY, WA — A powerful step forward in the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage was marked yesterday at a special ceremony held at the premises of the Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation (GKB). The event celebrated the generous donation of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) equipment and university-based training by the Oriental Investments Group to GKB.
This donation significantly strengthens the capacity of the GKB Heritage Team, equipping them with advanced tools to respectfully and accurately search for Aboriginal ancestral remains. The ability to locate and protect these sacred sites is vital to the preservation of Noongar cultural heritage and identity.
The ceremony was attended by senior local Aboriginal Elders and key representatives including:
John Penny, Chairman of GKB
Chun Fan, Chairman of Oriental Investments Group
Bruce Jorgensen, CEO of GKB
Chantelle Huang, CEO of Oriental Investments Group
Jackie Parker, CEO of GKB Impact
Jason Miguel, Mayor of the City of Bunbury
A heartfelt Welcome to Country was delivered by Les Wallam, Senior Elder, who acknowledged the importance of the donation to Noongar history and congratulated GKB on its remarkable growth and leadership in cultural protection.
Natalie Smith from the GKB Heritage Team spoke to the enthusiasm and excitement felt by her team with this addition to their resources.
“This donation marks a significant milestone in strengthening the capacity of the GKB Heritage Team,” said Bruce Jorgensen. “It will play a vital role in supporting our mission to honour and protect the resting places of our ancestors with the utmost care”.
“We are honoured to support GKB’s mission and proud to contribute to the safeguarding of Aboriginal heritage through meaningful partnership,” added Chun Fang.
The ceremony took place at GKB Headquarters, Davenport, and included a community gathering and equipment demonstration. The GPR technology will be used in conjunction with university-based training to ensure its application meets the highest standards of cultural sensitivity and technical precision.
This initiative aligns with GKB’s broader goals of self-determination and community empowerment, as outlined in strategic programs such as Rational Impact Community_v5.
Media Contact:
Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation
Phone: (08) 6717 0010
Email: ceo@gkb.org.au
Website: www.gkb.org.au
Download: GKB media statement (PDF 938KB)
