Gnalla Pop-up Plaza to activate Nollamara

The Nollamara Shopping Centre carpark will be transformed into a vibrant town square from March to June thanks to a partnership between the City of Stirling and RAC, through its Reconnect WA initiative.

‘Gnalla’ meaning ‘our’, is the Nyoongar name given to the community-driven initiative that will create a temporary town square and a series of pop-up, plaza style events to activate the space in April.

The entrance to the carpark from Nollamara Avenue will be closed off, creating a pedestrian-friendly space for people to gather, socialise, shop and share food. The pop-up is aimed at rejuvenating the centre and growing a sense of community.

Mayor Mark Irwin said the concept came as a result of discussions with key cultural groups in Nollamara and it had come to fruition through funding from the RAC’s Reconnect WA initiative.

“Young couples and families say they want to see casual outdoor dining and meeting places in their local areas and vendors who are too small to rent retail spaces are looking for informal, low cost options such as markets,” Mayor Irwin said.

“One of the key priorities for the City’s Better Suburbs Strategy is to create economic development and local employment opportunities and this support from RAC means we can really hit the ground running. We want to create a space where locals can connect and socialise; bringing more activity and vibrancy to our diverse Nollamara community.”

RAC Group Executive Social and Community Impact Patrick Walker said RAC was proud to support projects which bring new energy and vibrancy to our communities.

“We are very excited to partner with the City of Stirling through our Reconnect WA initiative to bring the Gnalla Pop-up Plaza to Nollamara,” he said.

“A key priority of RAC’s Reconnect WA initiative is to inspire local residents and businesses to get involved in driving positive change in their local areas, so we’re thrilled the community has the opportunity to help shape the Gnalla Pop-up Plaza and any longer-term changes that may follow.”

City officers will be onsite on event days, working with the community to design a permanent plaza at the Nollamara Shopping Centre that reflects the community’s needs and priorities. 

Local businesses can apply for a day trading ticket to set up temporary spaces for stalls such as food, craft and entertainment.

The City will be hosting seven pop-up events during April, with activities for families and young people including roving performers, Easter fun, a movie night and Ramadan night market.

Parking is limited, so visitors are encouraged to walk, ride or consider use public transport.

For a full list of Gnalla events, visit the Gnalla Pop Up Plaza webpage.