MEDIA RELEASE                                                                                    FOR IMMEDIATE USE  25 Aug, 2023

Mandoon Estate rebadges accommodation to acknowledge Traditional Owners  

Mandoon Estate, one of the Ultimate Winery Experiences of Australia, has rebadged its onsite accommodation to reflect its commitment and connection to Country.

Formerly known as 'The Colony', the name of the 32-room retreat in Western Australia's Swan Valley near Perth has been changed to 'Maya Maya' – meaning 'camp' in local language. The land on which Mandoon Estate now resides was a popular camping location for the Whadjuk Noongar people, due to its rich resources.

The move carries immense significance in mirroring Mandoon's steadfast dedication to fostering cultural awareness and inclusivity. In 2022, Mandoon Estate commenced a transformative journey by embarking on a 'Reflect' Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).  

The rename was an integral aspect of this journey. Guided by Nelson Waite, Mandoon Estate's Cultural Development Coordinator, collaboration with local Traditional Custodians played a pivotal role in arriving at the new name.

According to Mandoon Estate's General Manager, Travers O'Rafferty, the change honours and shows respect for the history of the Whadjuk Noongar people and what existed before us.

"Undergoing the change to Maya Maya, we embark on a fresh chapter that not only mirrors our dedication to luxury, but also honours cultural inclusivity, welcoming guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Swan Valley,” said Travers.

Kate Shilling, Executive Officer of Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia, said that Mandoon was leading the way when it came to celebrating its Indigenous heritage.

“The Swan Valley region holds a rich history, and Mandoon Estate offers a unique opportunity to listen to the stories of this area and learn about local Indigenous food and culture from Noongar Elder, Dale Tilbrook,” said Kate.

“The renaming of the accommodation on the property further acknowledges the significance of the site's Indigenous heritage, and encourages guests to connect to Country when visiting Mandoon,” she said.

Mandoon Estate engaged artist Samaja Miller – a young Aboriginal woman from the Minang and Kaneang people to create the new logo for the accommodation, which represents the camp, the soil and the Swan River. 

-ENDS-

IMAGES HERE

MEDIA CONTACTS

Kate Shilling
E: 0407 188 528
M: kate.shilling@ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au

Tori Johnson
E: 0402 712 947
M: tori.johnson@ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au

About Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia:

Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia is a hand-selected collection of Australia's premium wineries offering quality winery experiences based around world class wines, warm hospitality and culinary excellence. Our wineries offer memorable experiences featuring quality restaurants, accommodation, tours, as well as exciting behind-the-scenes winery experiences. They allow visitors to interact with the product, the winemaker and enjoy first-hand, the rich diversity that Australia's many wine regions have to offer.

Discover more at www.ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au.