Kimberely on-Country diversionary facility Wala Kooral-bi Centre opens after years of delays

The Kimberley’s long promised on-Country diversion facility for at-risk boys was officially opened on November 28 following years of delays.

However, due to the centre shuttering for the wet season, the first cohort of at-risk boys aged between 14 and 17 won’t be placed at the facility until next year.

An alternative to juvenile detention, the Wala Kooral-bi Centre will house up to 16 boys and staff as and will run as a pilot program for three years.

Boys placed at the facility will gain practical station experience while also engaging in education and cultural learning that will help them find purpose, take responsibility and strengthen their connection to culture, community and Country, according to the State Government.

The centre sits around 120km south-east of Derby at Mount Anderson Station with Marlamanu, a subsidiary of KRED Enterprises, managing the facility.

KRED Enterprises chief executive Damien Parriman said he was proud of the progress that had been made.

“The journey ahead is about making sure everything is in place to provide a strong, safe and healing experience for our young people to become positive leaders amongst their peers,” he said.

Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation executive chairperson Robert Watson said the facility was a much-needed alternative to sending children to detention facilities far away from Country and family.

“Too often, our young people are taken far from home in times of crisis. Marlamanu is about changing that story, about keeping them close to Country, supported by culture, community and family.”

Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna said the centre was a “vital step” in creating safer, stronger futures for Kimberley youth.

“Wala Kooral-bi (meaning ‘catch’em up quick’) is built on the belief that every young person deserves support and opportunity - this centre will offer them guidance and practical skills while also strengthening their families and communities,” she said.

Community Services Minister Matthew Swinbourn said the facility is “transformative” and will have lasting impact for the community.

“The opening of the Wala Kooral-bi Centre marks a significant milestone, ushering in new opportunities for Kimberley youth to reconnect with culture and community,” he said.

Regional Development and Kimberley Minister Stephen Dawson said the residential diversion program was grounded in culture, Country, and healing.

“This centre demonstrates what is possible when government listens, partners with community, and supports Aboriginal organisations to lead,” he said.

Originally announced in May 2022 by the McGowan Government, the facility was initially set to open in mid-2023 but has faced multiple delays.

It was first delayed to mid-2024 due to flooding caused by ex-tropical cyclone Ellie, before being delayed again to mid-2025.

A total of $19.1m has been spent to deliver the facility and fund the three-year pilot program.