Melbourne's iconic Koorie Heritage Trust marks four decades of preserving and celebrating Victorian First Peoples' culture.
The Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) is kicking off a year-long celebration to mark 40 years of cultural resilience, growth and connection to Victorian First Peoples.
From humble beginnings to becoming the only stand-alone First Peoples arts and cultural centre in any Australian capital city, KHT has become an absolute powerhouse in Melbourne’s cultural landscape.
40 years of the Koorie Heritage Trust
- Where: Birrarung Building, Fed Square, Narrm
- When: Throughout 2025, with major exhibition opening 23 August
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Grounded in the 65,000-year history of Victorian and south-east Australian First Peoples, the Trust has carved out an essential space at Federation Square and within the broader Melbourne Arts Precinct.
The milestone year will feature a major retrospective solo exhibition by Aunty Connie Hart (Gunditjmara) opening in August, alongside other activities amplifying the voices of Elders, community members and individuals who’ve shaped KHT’s remarkable journey.
It’s been a wild ride since that inaugural meeting of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Trust on 17 October 1985. The organisation has evolved into a thriving cultural hub that works tirelessly to ensure Victorian First Peoples’ rich heritage, history and knowledge systems are celebrated as an active part of our society.
10 years in the iconic Birrarung Building
The Trust took a massive leap forward in 2015 when it marked its 30th anniversary by relocating to the Birrarung Building (formerly known as the Yarra Building) at Fed Square. This wasn’t just about changing address – it boldly positioned Victorian First Peoples at the cultural heart of Narrm, creating a powerful space for shared histories and mutual respect.
In 2023, KHT expanded further, cementing its status as a beacon for Aboriginal voices, stories and art for future generations.
Tom Mosby, CEO of KHT, reflects on the achievement: “As we celebrate 40 years of KHT, we reflect with immense pride on everything we have achieved. We are grateful to the community, who have generously shared their culture and knowledge, enabling us to celebrate our First Peoples.”
He continues, “It is through their trust and collaboration that we have been able to create a space where the voices of the First Peoples can be heard, respected, and celebrated. These 40 years have been an incredible testament to the strength and spirit of the community, and as we look to a bright future.”
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