Whitehaven Coal and Viva Energy donate $30k for Walhallow infrastructure

Whitehaven Coal (ASX: WHC) has partnered with VIVA Energy (ASX: VEA) to contribute to the Walhallow community infrastructure project, continuing the company’s commitment to supporting local communities and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups.

Whitehaven donated $20,000, and Viva Energy added a further $10,000, boosting the efforts of the Walhallow Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) to upgrade critical infrastructure within the community. These donations are in conjunction with a grant from the NSW Government’s Growing Regions Program.

The infrastructure upgrades will include improvements to existing buildings, such as the health centre and community hall and the development of a new cultural centre.

This centre will be the hub of Liverpool Plains culture and history, not only for the local Gamilaroi people but for the entire region to enjoy.

Walhallow LALC chief executive Jason Allan says the Cultural Centre will have an intergenerational impact on the Walhallow Aboriginal community.

“The Elders can now share their stories in both English and Gamilaraay, their Ancestors’ language, instilling pride in their culture and passing down this knowledge to future generations,” he said.

“The Cultural Centre and Hall will serve as a platform to showcase their heritage and living culture for the next generation.”

Whitehaven senior manager Aboriginal community relations Bob Sutherland comments on the project.

“An important part of our reconciliation approach is a commitment to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people stay connected to Country, community and culture — something this project will help to achieve for the Walhallow community,” he said.

“We have a long-standing relationship with the Walhallow LALC and deep connections with many Aboriginal families across the Tamworth, Quirindi, and Gunnedah areas.

“This project is vital for the community, and we’re delighted to be involved.”

Viva Energy product services team member Todd Alderson says the company is proud to join Whitehaven in supporting the Walhallow LALC.

“Investing in infrastructure that benefits local communities and preserves cultural heritage is central to our values,” he said.

“The contributions from Whitehaven and Viva Energy, along with the NSW Government grant, are key to advancing our community’s infrastructure,” Mr Allan says.

“The upgrades will ensure that our people stay connected to our culture and have access to essential services right here in Walhallow.”