Carnarvon’s residential care facility given name Gnullingoo Mia

Carnarvon’s new $19.1 million residential care facility will be named Gnullingoo Mia, meaning “our home”.

The decision was made in consultation with the Bundiyarra-Irra Wangga Language Centre and senior Inggarda elders on an inclusive Inggarda name for the new centre.

Pronounced Null-ing-oo My-ah, the name comes from the Inggarda words “Gnulli”; meaning all of us, and “Mia”; which is home.

The 38-bed facility includes accommodation for couples and family members, and ensures local people feel at home while accessing culturally sensitive care in their local community.

Health Minister Roger Cook said the name recognised the importance of Carnarvon’s Aboriginal heritage.

“The development of the Gnullingoo Mia Residential Care facility is extremely close to the people of Carnarvon and ensuring the name represents the history, culture and achievements of the Inggarda people has been a priority for the WA Country Health Service,” he said.

“Once established, Gnullingoo Mia will have state-of-the-art technology that will play a huge role in improving patient experience and giving people treatment close to home.

“This is further demonstration of our ongoing commitment to providing care closer to home for country communities.”

Practical completion of the facility is expected late this year, enabling new residents to occupy the facility in early 2022.