Baaka means belonging to the river – the Darling River – in the Barkintji language. The Baakantji (pronounced bar-kan-tgee and written variously as Paakantji or Barkintji) are river people with similar dialects of one language group.
Wilcannia means ‘where the river breaks its banks’. The Paakantji (Barkintji) people have a connection to Country and the cultural centre showcases their success in retaining a living and vibrant Aboriginal culture within NSW and Australia.
Barkintji Country extends along the Darling River, and associated floodplains and waterways from the north of Wilcannia to the Victorian border. Barkintji people have been calling Wilcannia home for at least 60,000 years. The community of Wilcannia is the cultural heart of Barkintji country in Far Western NSW.
The Baaka Cultural and Art Centre
OUR MISSION TO PRESERVE CULTURE & HERRITAGE
The Baaka Cultural and Art Centre aims to create a home for Baakantji art and culture, including the post colonial heritage of the town. The gallery will feature both artefacts and modern art depicting the rich heritage of Wilcannia. ​The Baaka Cultural Centre Wilcannia Aboriginal Corporation is a Not for Profit Company and is a registered charity and has Deductible Gift status. All donations to the Corporation are a tax deduction.​​
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