Matt Presutto
16 Sept 2024
Our very own social enterprise cafe, Ngarrgu Djerring, had it's soft launch on Monday September 16th at 6 Alfred Place in Melbourne's CBD.
A new culinary and cultural experience was launched in Melbourne’s central business precinct today, offering more than just a place to eat. Opened by Wurundjeri Elder, Uncle Colin Hunter Jnr, Ngarrgu Djerring cafe is a space where culture, community, and creativity entwine.
Ngarrgu Djerring (pronounced Nar-guw Jerr-ing) is an exciting social enterprise venture by Killara Foundation, in partnership with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, City of Melbourne, Mirvac, McCormack, Property Industry Foundation, Genovese Coffee and other industry partners. “Ngarrgu” means knowledge and “Djerring” means together in Woi-wurrung language.
Located at 6 Alfred Place in Melbourne CBD, the Ngarrgu Djerring approach focuses on delivering high quality and sustainable food and beverage that showcases thriving First Nations agricultural practices, while providing culturally-safe employment and training opportunities for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The founder of Killara Foundation, Kyle Vander-Kuyp, highlights the significance of this social enterprise, in terms of what this café represents.
“Ngarrgu Djerring is more than just a café—it's a safe landing space for people to connect, reflect, and learn together. It’s a meeting point where skills, stability and connection can foster subtle yet powerful learnings.
“We need more safe spaces like this in the city, places where our community can come together, share knowledge, and grow. This café represents an opportunity to do that, and allows diverse communities to connect and engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and histories.”
“We are grateful for Wurundjeri Corporation and Elder Aunty Gail’s support in providing the Woi-wurrung translation of our vision”
This social enterprise venture has been realised thanks to support from the City of Melbourne, and their Small Business Grants 2023-24 Program. Through the Shopfront Occupancy Stream, $30,000 was provided to help fund the fit out at 6 Alfred Place to become an operational cafe and cultural hub.
Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Nicholas Reece, said:
“We want Melbourne to be the best place in the world for start-ups. We’re proud to provide new opportunities for ideas to grow, and to make it easier than ever to start a new venture through programs like our Small Business Grant.”
"Ngarrgu Djerring showcases what Melbourne is all about: culture, community, experience, and sharing knowledge of our First Nations people."
Further support from Mirvac, McCormack, and Property Industry Foundation have been instrumental in securing the site and carrying out the shopfront’s repurposing.
Mirvac’s General Manager, Portfolio Management, Oce and Industrial, Kate Beech said:
“Mirvac is very excited to partner with Killara Foundation and work together on initiatives we both care about. Supporting organisations that create positive social impacts and empower First Nations communities is a core part of Mirvac's culture and our commitment to reconciliation and fostering a sense of belonging.
“As a company we don’t just develop assets, we also manage and own the buildings. This approach helps us ensure their long-term success and gives us the chance to create spaces that serve a greater purpose,” explains Kate.“That's exactly what we aim to achieve here. Tenants and the community around 90 Collins Street can enjoy great coffee and food at this café while supporting the foundation's efforts to connect and share culture with visitors. This is likely just the beginning of how we can work and learn from each other.”
Lauren McCormack, Director of McCormack explains that the company is excited to support this initiative, allowing them the opportunity to uphold their commitment to the corporation’s important values.
“McCormack is proud to support the Killara Foundation’s initiative to open a café at 90 Collins Street. This project will offer mentorship, employment, and training opportunities for both Indigenous and non- Indigenous individuals in a beautifully refurbished space.
“Reflecting our commitment to community and reconciliation, our team, along with our project partners, has worked diligently to provide design, consultation, and build services to bring this vision to life. We couldn’t be prouder of the result.
“As we prepare to move into the CBD, just around the corner, we look forward to supporting this initiative, which aligns perfectly with our values. I’m excited to see the cafe in action and will likely become one of its best customers.”
Ngarrgu Djerring is scheduled for its full scale opening on October 1st. Come by when you're next in the area!