In 2024-25, RDA Orana continued working closely with the Board of the Baaka Cultural and Art Centre Wilcannia Aboriginal Corporation and Central Darling Shire Council to develop a sustainability model and provide strategic executive support including development of business plans; a fundraising strategy; tourism plans; operating plans; provision of grants management advice; and business development support.

RDA Orana is responsible for the implementation of strategies for the Art Centre, Language and Cultural Centre, including the development of the Barjkintji Permanent Interpretative Exhibit.

With the landmark $9.5 million construction of the Baaka Cultural and Art Centre complete in 2024, focus shifted to delivering the precinct’s permanent exhibition; securing critical multi year operational funding; and recruiting a dynamic team in preparation for the highly anticipated official opening scheduled in 2026.

RDA Orana developed the sustainability model and has now successfully secured $2.47 million for the operation; fit-out; training; and business implementation of the Baaka Cultural and Art Centre. This amount includes significant contributions from the NSW Department of Aboriginal Affairs; the NSW Office of Gaming and Racing; the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal; the Create NSW Agency; the Australian Government’s Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program; and the Australian Government’s National Indigenous Australians Agency’s Remote Jobs and Economic Development program.

Once fully operational, the Baaka Cultural and Art Centre will employ 15 team members, representing 2.1% of Wilcannia’s total population, and will significantly boost Wilcannia’s economic resilience and community wellbeing.

The development of the Centre is a regionally significant project, that will recognise and celebrate the culture and traditions of the Baakintji (Barkindji) people of the middle and lower Darling River region. The Centre will also support cultural and economic initiatives in the wider community.