Celebrating 60,000 years of star-gazing
Thanks to you, a Lotterywest grant of $958,890 has been given towards the construction of the Aboriginal Astronomy Centre, named Worl Wangkiny (Sky Stories), which will celebrate 60,000 years of Noongar astronomical wisdom through public art.
One of the things we need to learn first as people is to live on the Earth before we concern ourselves with other celestial bodies.
The flagship project involves Follow the Dream high school students working alongside Artists, Elders and Rotary Kalamunda, and led by Dr Noel Nannup, Peter Farmer and Sharyn Egan. The ‘canvas’ is a large part‐constructed telescope dome which has stood vacant for over 12 years, which will be transformed into a monumental stage to share ancient knowledge. The supporting book and documentary film will allow Aboriginal culture to be shared with the world.
The Perth Observatory Volunteer Group Inc. (POVG) was established in 1996 and incorporated in 2015, when research was stopped at the state-heritage listed Observatory.
Rather than see the site shut down, POVG commenced a 10 year Community Partnership with the State Government in 2016, with the desire to provide community access and education opportunities via the Observatory’s telescopes and scientific artefacts.
By playing Lotterywest games, you've helped provide $958,890 to help protect the Observatory’s heritage and cultural history through creation of a “Living Museum of Science and Technology”, including improved access and amenities, preservation of historical artefacts, redevelopment of the museum and creation of an Aboriginal Astronomy Centre.
The grant will also work to improve resources and facilities for over 130 dedicated POVG volunteers.
A$75,300
Towards travel, accommodation and registration costs for delegates from metropolitan and regional communities to attend the 2019 State Heritage Conference.

Beating heart of arts
The Stirling Street Arts Centre has provided low-cost art and craft activities to the South West for over 32 years.
Catching a brighter future
Since 2003, Fishability has been helping people with a disability around WA experience the joy of recreational fishing.
Saving our native wildlife
For almost 40 years, Native Animal Rescue’s team of more than 200 volunteers has dedicated their time to supporting wildlife.
Riding between the lines
The Constable Care Child Safety Foundation Inc., now known as the Constable Care Foundation, was initiated in 1997 as part of Community Policing. Now a separate function, the team work tirelessly to address social issues in primary school aged children.

Bridging a gap in the community
Thanks to a Lotterywest grant to Spinal Cord Injuries Australia, a new client-centred house will be made available, as a home-away-from-home, for people with spinal cord injuries and their families.
A$70,098
Towards office furniture and equipment to enhance the provision of injury prevention and recovery support services in Western Australia.
Want to apply for a grant?
Every year we give grants to Western Australian community organisations who provide services, support and inspiration to make this already great state, greater. If you think you’re one of those, click below to find out how to apply.