Construction of Geraldton Short Stay to start with builder appointed

The Cook Government has awarded the $23.4 contract to build the Geraldton Aboriginal Short Stay Accommodation to Mid West-Gascoyne builder GBSC Yurra Pty Ltd, with siteworks to commence from 31 January 2024.

$23.4 million building contract awarded to GBSC Yurra Pty Ltd to build Geraldton Short Stay accommodation
Short stay accommodation for a maximum of 100 guests

Western Australia's fourth Aboriginal Short Stay has been designed to meet the needs of Aboriginal visitors from remote communities across the Mid West-Gascoyne region and beyond, who are travelling to Geraldton to access a range of services or for cultural reasons.

The Geraldton Short Stay will provide a total of 44 units comprising 16 single/couple, 14 family and 14 universally accessible rooms that will be able to accommodate up to 100 guests.

Other features of the design by Geraldton-based Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects include communal cooking, dining and laundry areas, solar photovoltaics (PVs), a children's nature play and a half basketball court.

GBSC Yurra Pty Ltd has demonstrated experience and an excellent track record in Aboriginal employment and has committed to engaging 10 Indigenous employees.

Existing Short-Stay facilities have been operating successfully for some years in Kalgoorlie, Derby and Broome.

Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:

"My Government is committed to establishing new Aboriginal Short Stay Accommodation services, to ensure Aboriginal visitors have a safe space to stay when travelling.

"This latest project will be able to house up to 100 guests in accommodation that is culturally-considered and comfortable, with a great range of amenities on site.

"When complete, the Geraldton Aboriginal Short Stay will build on the success of existing services across the State."

Comments attributed to Housing Minister John Carey:

"The establishment of the Geraldton Aboriginal Short Stay Accommodation services will ensure safe, culturally-considered, short-term accommodation is available to support Aboriginal visitors from regional, remote and metropolitan areas.

"Short Stays play an important role in providing accommodation for Aboriginal people traveling to regional towns or centres and supporting people experiencing homelessness.

"The appointment of local builder GBSC Yurra brings this important development closer to realisation.

"WA's existing Aboriginal Short Stays have been critical in improving outcomes for Aboriginal people in the regions by providing a safe and secure place to stay."

Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dr Tony Buti:

"The Geraldton Short Stay will provide safe, affordable and culturally-considered accommodation for Aboriginal people travelling into Geraldton from regional and remote communities, and have the capability to connect guests to local services.

"GBSC Yurra is a local company with demonstrated experience and commitment to achieving – and exceeding – Aboriginal employment targets during the construction of the Short Stay."

Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:

"This is another example of the Cook Government's commitment to the people of Geraldton.

"The Short Stay will provide much needed affordable accommodation to Aboriginal visitors to our city.

"I want to acknowledge the local Aboriginal community, especially the Midwest Aboriginal Organisation Alliance, who have been advocating for this project for more than a decade."