Opening of Yitpi Yartapuultiku

On the weekend we celebrated the official opening of Yitpi Yartapuultiku, the soul of Port Adelaide.

It was an incredible day filled with culture, connection and joy, with nearly ten thousand people coming together to experience all that the cultural centre has to offer. Held during National Reconciliation Week, the opening carried a powerful message of respect, healing, and togetherness.

Yitpi Yartapuultiku is a unique place where visitors can connect with Aboriginal culture and develop a deeper appreciation and respect for Country. It features a diverse range of offerings, including guided cultural tours, ceremonial event spaces, nature play areas, a living shoreline, art exhibitions, community services, and educational programs — all set within a beautiful natural landscape.

We are incredibly grateful to the Kaurna Custodians, the Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Working Group and Brave and Curious who generously shared their time, cultural knowledge and guidance. It was invaluable to the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, Ashley Halliday Architects, WAX Design and the wider project team in delivering this milestone project for the community.

Warwick Keates, director of WAX, reflected on the project saying, “This project is a testament to the visionary thinking, generosity, and courage of the Kaurna community. Being part of this incredible co-design process, and seeing Yitpi Yartapuultiku come to life has been an honour and privilege”.