Dordaak Kepup enters its final stages of construction

As work continues on the building's striking exterior, equally important efforts are bringing cultural significance to the spaces within.

The library and youth innovation hub’s name Dordaak Kepup, meaning Place of Living Waters, was chosen through consultation with Noongar elders and community members to reflect the site the facility will sit on, overlooking Broadview Park.

Meaningful cultural names have also been given to key spaces within the facility - ensuring the building not only stands out architecturally, but respects the rich cultural heritage of the land on which it's built.

The Noongar-naming theme will extend throughout the facility, with each space given a special Noongar name that reflects its use.

The names were selected by Noongar naming consultant and Emeritus Professor, Dr Len Collard, from Moodjar Consultancy, and members of Ni Kadadjiny Koort, the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community reference group.

Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said it was important to maintain ties between the building and the native Noongar land and culture it is connected to.

“Using Noongar names for spaces within this building is a meaningful way to recognise the enduring
connection of Aboriginal people to this land,” she said.

“It fosters greater understanding, respect and pride in our shared history, while keeping language and culture alive for future generations."

We look forward to welcoming the community to Dordaak Kepup in December 2025.

Translations

Building name - Dordaak Kepup
Place of living waters

Foyer - Bilya
River

Library - Bibbool Yanginy Kadadjiny
Sharing knowledge through paper/ paperbark tree

Wet and dry activity room - Booyi
Long-necked turtle

Quiet room - Kep Wari
Still water, pool of water

Meeting rooms - Dabakarn
Slow down, take it easy, don’t rush

Quiet study - Kaditj Nyininy
Sitting learning, thinking, reflecting

Gaming sphere - Waabiny
Playing

STEAM room - Kali
Boomerang

Collaboration station - Keny Moort
One family, mob, people

Creative arena - Nyumbi
Celebration style of dance

Demonstration kitchen - Yandi
Curved bowl

Podcast room and recording studio - Ni Kadadjiny
Listening to knowledge, learning through listening

Staff area - Dandjoo
Together

For more information and further updates, visit wanneroo.wa.gov.au/dordaakkepup