Djilang Plaza lights the way

TENS of thousands of visitors to Kardinia Park will experience the history, culture of First Nations People in Geelong for generations to come, with the official opening of Djilang Plaza.

The new public space outside the Polly Farmer Gate at GMHBA Stadium was delivered as part of the Victorian government’s $142 million Kardinia Park Stage 5 redevelopment.

As spectators from across Geelong, Victoria and interstate flock to this new meeting place, Djilang Plaza will honour Traditional Owners of the land on which the venue sits and ensure the story of the land is told for generations to come.

Wadawurrung artwork and “Ngarrwa Kalk” (knowledge sticks) light poles designed by Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles celebrate First Nation People’s rich connection to the land.

“Kardinia Park has always been a place for Wadawurrung People to come together and gather for ceremony, dance and celebration. Our stories and knowledge continue to be told here,” Ms

Eccles said.

“My installation ‘Ngarrwa Kalk’ tells the Wadawurrung stories of the place and layers of Country.

“Each of the seven poles represents a different part of Wadawurrung Country.”

Meaning a “Tongue of Land,” Djilang is the Traditional Wadawurrung title for Geelong and represents the unique way Geelong and the Bellarine sits on the edge of the bay.

Djilang Plaza is one of several features of the Stage 5 redevelopment, which included the Joel Selwood Stand, the just-opened Geelong Sports Museum and the soon-to-be-opened indoor Barwon Regional Cricket Centre.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos joined Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, representatives from the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and local MPs on Friday last week to officially open the plaza.

“This land has been an integral part of Wadawurrung culture for thousands of years and Djilang Plaza is an important way to honour this legacy in the heart of Geelong,” Mr Dimpoulous said.

The trust’s chief executive officer Gerard Griffin said the plaza came about through “mindful consultation and deep listening with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation”.

“The Djilang Plaza with two significant cultural artworks leading to the Polly Farmer Gate show respect to and for our First Nations people.”