An experienced Aboriginal corporation has been selected as the preferred proponent for a unique opportunity to activate and develop the historic Cossack townsite in Western Australia's Pilbara region.
Ngarluma Yindjibarndi Foundation Ltd Commercial, trading as Garlbagu (NYFL), has now been invited to advance to the next stage of negotiations following a successful registration of interest process. NYFL has unique experience in managing the Cossack townsite as it is currently the caretaker of existing facilities in the town, including the café and accommodation facilities.
NYFL propose to enhance the tourism offerings and deliver a mixed-use tourism destination, which incorporates eco-village style accommodation and a range of cultural and hospitality uses.
The State Government will now work with NYFL to refine their proposal, in conjunction with the City of Karratha, and identify the most suitable tenure for the townsite - being either leasehold, freehold or a combination of the two - and the future planning framework.
As stated by Lands Minister Ben Wyatt:
"NYFL have been selected as the preferred proponent for its plan to activate and enhance the Cossack townsite to create a tourist destination with unrivalled visitor experiences.
"With such a strong cultural connection to the land, existing built heritage assets and a pristine coastal landscape, Cossack will provide a mix of offerings to suit all tourists and interests.
"Negotiations with NYFL will now continue in the new year to ensure the greatest potential benefit can be delivered to the community through a revitalised townsite.
"Through a diverse mix of cultural and hospitality uses, in addition to leveraging the unique landscape and location of Cossack, we are working to provide economic development and recreation opportunities for the local community."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"Cossack is an important part of Pilbara's history and I'm pleased to hear that NYFL has been selected as the preferred proponent.
"NYFL has strong cultural connections to the land and has experience managing existing town assets, giving them a unique insight into the town."
