TFA Principal Nick Juniper was thrilled to be in Newman yesterday for the opening of Jirninyjarri Maya, an assisted living facility for Elders from the Parnpajinya community.

The project came about through the combined vision of two organisations – aged care and respite provider, East Pilbara Independent Support Incorporated (EPIS), who identified the need and the Pilbara Development Commission who were able to provide funding for the project. Lotterywest generously funded the courtyard and parkland landscape

EPIS had been gifted eight houses in the town centre that were structurally sound but in need of a substantial upgrade. Our role was to provide co-design services, ensuring that the houses met aged care regulations whilst creating an inviting environment for residents and visitors. Residents had significant input into the colour scheme and landscaping.

Adding to the challenge was the need to accommodate different cultural groups within the village. Each group will occupy their own cluster of houses, while the courtyards are divided into a series of private, semi-communal and open space.

The design is affordable and environmentally responsible, making use of existing housing stock, and incorporating long-term cost saving devices including PV solar and bore water.

The impact of this project cannot be underplayed. Like Martuku Jikiku Maya does for secondary students, Jirninyjarri Maya will allow Elders to remain connected to family, culture and Country whilst accessing the health and social services they need.