Mornington Island opens doors to a digital future with new Indigenous Knowledge Centre

The community of Mornington Island has proudly celebrated the opening of its stunning new digital Indigenous Knowledge Centre (IKC) designed to support digital learning, cultural preservation, and community connection. 

Located in the heart of Gununa, the new centre marks a significant step forward for the region, offering residents access to digital tools, training, and opportunities.

The official opening was led by the Honourable Fiona Simpson, Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Minister for Multiculturalism.

‘These Digital Indigenous Knowledge Centres are critical projects in addressing Closing the Gap targets in childhood development, learning potential, employment and education, economic participation, culture and languages, and access to information,' Minister Simpson said.

‘I am pleased to officially open this fantastic new community facility on Mornington Island on behalf of the Crisafulli Government.’

Mornington Island is the largest of the Wellesley Islands in the Gulf of Carpentaria. It is a place of deep cultural significance and vibrant diversity. The Lardil people are the island’s traditional custodians, joined by the Yangkaal, Kaiadilt, and Gangalidda peoples. This rich intercultural environment is reflected in the spirit of the new IKC as a welcoming community hub.

Vicki McDonald AM, State Librarian and CEO of State Library of Queensland, said the partnership with Mornington Island Aboriginal Shire Council means residents can now enjoy more of the benefits of the digital world, including recording and supporting the community’s culture and history.

‘State Library is proud to lead this initiative which helps close the digital divide and supports digital inclusion in Queensland’s First Nation communities,’ she said.

‘It will provide access to online services and training, and a space to develop ideas for digital businesses or to work remotely.’

Cr Richard Sewter, Mayor of Mornington Shire Council said the new IKC will ensure the community gains access to tools and resources for ongoing learning and development. 

‘This is helping the community to keep up with the digital age we now live in and ensure Mornington Island won’t feel left behind as an isolated community,’ Cr Sewter said. 

‘Special thanks to the Queensland Government for this initiative as we need this for our community’s participation in digital developments, into the future.’

The opening event began with a Welcome to Country by local elder Aunty Karen Chong, followed by a performance by the talented Mornington Island Dancers Youth Group that brought energy and excitement to the celebration.

Supporting Queensland’s digital future

At the bright, modern, purpose-built IKC guests met with community members and enjoyed workshop demonstrations in digital arts, eSports and pocket cinema led by State Library’s Dan Guest. In between, a collection of locally significant digital images curated by Queensland Memory flowed seamlessly across the interactive screens.

The new IKC has sparked considerable interest among local community groups, who see it not only as a place to learn but also as a meeting place to collaborate and explore new ideas. Equipped with work spaces and a wide range of digital tools—including iPads, laptops, digital camera kits, scanners, sublimation printing equipment, interactive digital screens, and an e-sports kit—the centre supports remote learning, job readiness, creative and cultural activities, and micro-business development.

Pre-opening workshops gave community members the chance to try out the technology and initiated conversations about future possibilities—from arts and storytelling projects to youth-led initiatives such as eSports coaching and competitions. 

For young people, the eSports facility offers a safe and engaging space to build teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital skills. It also serves as a positive incentive for school attendance and behaviour, while helping youth connect with peers across Queensland and beyond.

Earlier this month, the Queensland Premier, The Honourable David Crisafulli MP, joined students from Mornington Island State School to take part in one of the early digital workshops delivered by State Library, showing enthusiastic support for the centre and its potential.

The Queensland Government has emphasised the importance of growing digital industries by equipping young adults with the skills and experience needed to build a future-ready technology workforce and support sectors such as games development, innovation, and creative tech.

Closing the digital gap

Mornington Island’s Digital IKC is the second of its kind in Queensland, following the successful launch of Studio Kowanyama IKC in July. These new centres are part of State Library’s Growing IKCs project, which supports 16 First Nations councils in building digital capacity.

First Nations digital inclusion is a crucial issue, recognised in Target 17 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which aims to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have equal levels of digital inclusion by 2026. The Mapping the Digital Gap 2024 Outcomes Report highlights ongoing challenges, including limited access to devices and internet, affordability, and online safety concerns—underscoring the need for targeted support to ensure all Queenslanders can confidently participate in the digital world.

The Growing IKCs project provides funding for IT equipment, place-based digital skills programs, and training for IKC staff to lead future digital initiatives tailored to their communities.

Looking ahead

There’s lots of activities to look forward to at the Mornington Island digital IKC and across the state as First Nations communities embrace the opportunity to lead their own digital futures—sharing stories, building skills, and strengthening local economies. 

The next digital IKC is set to open in Doomadgee later this year, continuing this exciting journey of digital inclusion and community empowerment. 

State Library’s Growing IKCs project is supported by the Department of Customer Service, Open Data and Small and Family Business.