Engaging with the multicultural and historical elements of Katanning

To begin Day 2 of his visit to Katanning, the Governor took the stroll down the main street to meet with Ms Natasha Monks (CEO) and Mr Bruce Manning (Chair) to visit the local Council Chambers. Here he learned of the devastating fires that threatened the town just prior to COVID and the measures subsequently taken to protect the town in case of future emergencies. Though a terrifying town, so quickly followed by the arrival of COVID, Mr Manning expressed how the tragedies had created a tighter knit community – strengthening values and bringing the town closer together.

The rest of the day turned out to be a wonderful showcase of one of the most ethically diverse regional towns in WA.

As-salamu alaikum

A visit to the local mosque displayed that citizenship and multiculturalism abound in the town of Katanning. Built in the 1980s by Islamic migrants, the mosque was the first built outside of the metro area and is open to the general public in order to build community spirit. Whilst many of the original migrants were from Cocos (Keeling) Islands, the congregation has swelled in recent years with people from countries such as Afghanistan, Myanmar, the Congo and China.

After a tour by Imam Alep Mydie and Deputy Imam Moh Aeson, the Governor was invited to attend morning tea with representatives of The Islamic Association of Katanning. Traditional Malaysian cuisine was handed out to the waiting crowds and the Governor spent some time talking with those in attendance, listening to many inspirational stories of migration and lives rebuilt on foreign soil. On this, the Governor reflected on the commitment to community, spiritualism and the space created.

A historical tour

Founded in 1937, the Katanning Historical Society is said to be one of the oldest affiliated societies in WA. While they usually only meet once a month, they made an exception for the Governor’s visit. Mrs Gerry Watson led a tour around the town, stopping at the museum and Kobeelya House.

The historic Kobeelya House, Nyonngar for ‘place of sleep and rest’ was built in 1902 by Frederick Henry Piesse, the founding father of Katanning. It was, in fact, the first building in WA to be connected to electricity and the first country WA to have both cold and hot running water. In 1922 it was purchased by the Bunbury Diocese and turned into a boarding and schoolhouse, known as Kobeelya College. In 1986 it changed hands to the Baptist Church and became a weekend retreat and education facility. Today, the manager of the property, Mrs Heather McCarley, encourages the use of facilities by local community groups. The various buildings house language and religious lessons, arts and crafts groups, meeting halls and more. It is also home to the Old Kobeelyian museum. Past student, Mrs Jill Clark, shared stories of her life as a boarding student as she led the Governor through the extensive collection of donated memorabilia.

The final stop was to the Katanning museum. Recently renovated, the museum was a fascinating collection of historical treasures, including a complete set-up of the original public school.

Aboriginal Leadership

After a quick lunch, the Governor continued on to the local library where he met with members of the Katanning Noongar Leadership Group (KNLG). The KNLG, made up of Noongar leaders and Elders, as well as members of the local Police, act as a key cultural advisory body for community engagement and planning in the local area. Discussions lead by Denise Gallanagh-Wood, Executive Officer for KNLG and Shire of Katanning Community Development Officer, focused upon the local Indigenous experience and the various community projects that encourage community and connection with people and Country.

Meeting surrounding towns

A small reception was held in honour of the Governor, with Local Government CEOs and Shire Presidents from neighbouring towns in attendance. Representatives from Kojonup, Kent, Woodanilling, Broomehill Tambellup, Gnowangerup and Cranbrook shared stories and updates from their towns with the Governor. To those in attendance, the Governor expressed the importance of the Great Southern region, “You don’t see our farms anywhere else. Others may farm the same product, but our farms are unique.”

A Hazaras dinner

To end an eventful and cultural day, the Governor was invited to dinner with members of the Hazaras community. John Nazary, a well respected leader within the community, shared his story of fleeing Afghanistan and Taliban rule over 20 years ago, and his subsequent settlement in Katanning. The Governor heard many more similar stories as the evening progressed, as well as engaging in discussion about the difficulties many are finding with current immigration delays.

Thanks goes to Mohanna Catering for providing a delicious meal for all in attendance.

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