Indigenous garden brings art to life
A vision for an indigenous garden inspired by the artwork of local artist Eileen Harrison is being brought to life in Warragul's Rotary Park.
Works are underway on the unique garden being funded by Warragul Rotary Club and Baw Baw Shire.
The garden will be a living representation of a painting by Dr Aunty Eileen that has been adapted by local landscape designer Prue Metcalfe.
The garden comprises six paths leading to a central meeting place for elders to pass on their knowledge to the young.
Dr Aunty Eileen said the design was significant as it was "important for us all to be connected to the land and to care for it."
The project celebrates 100 years of Rotary service in Australia. It aims to provide insight into the culture of the Kurnai people and build stronger connections with the land we live on and with each other.
Warragul Rotary Club president Di Carson said the club was proud to work with local Kurnai people on the project.
"When the park is finished, it will become a place for the community and visitors to learn more about Kurnai culture – their stories and how the land provided for their needs. "Our club has adopted this project to mark the celebration of one hundred years of Rotary service in Australia," she said.
The $120,000 construction of paths and the central circle is being jointly funded with an 80 per cent contribution from council and 20 per cent from Rotary.
Stage one works are expected to be completed by early July, with community engagement and fundraising for subsequent stages to follow.
Further development stages of the garden include installation of 17 stumps representing elders, six three metre high totem poles for spirit sculptures, solar lighting and seating; community planting events; art works to embody stories of the Kurnai people including large sculptures of birds mounted on totems.
It is also proposed to include interpretive signage and mosaic tiles telling the stories of animals on paths and other large art works.
Mayor Michael Leaney said "the new feature in the park supports council's vision for a sustainable, healthy, and thriving community. It will encourage more people to get outside, connect with nature and venture onto the extensive walking tracks from Rotary Park to Brooker Park in one direction and to Burke Street Park in the other direction."
Cr Leaney said the timing of works also was appropriate with National Reconciliation Week from May 27 to June 3.
"The theme of Reconciliation Week 2022 is to be brave and make change," said Cr Leaney.
"I think this project embodies that spirit. By working together, the local Indigenous community, the Warragul Rotary Club and Baw Baw Shire Council are creating lasting change at this site which not only acknowledges our local Kurnai people, but provides a site to meet, reflect and share knowledge. Baw Baw Shire Council is proud to support this project," he said.