Storytelling project open to community

ANOTHER piece of the Foreshore puzzle has been finalised following the completion of a dedicated cultural story-telling and community gathering space.

Kardermudelar Karweeyn Mirring, otherwise known as the Portland Bay Dance Ground, is now open for community usage.

The space features pathways, lighting, public art and an elevated dance area, designed in consideration of the natural environment and the nearby Pulambeet All Abilities Playground.

The project has been a collaboration between Council and the Gunditjmara community, with Gunditjmara dance group Koondoom Yarkeen Karweeyn leading the design and cultural development of the space, with support from Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (GMTOAC), Winda Mara Aboriginal Corporation (WMAC), and Dhauwurrd Wurrung Elderly and Community Services (DWECH).

Community members will notice the distinctive totem poles in the space, which depict a Gunditjmara Class totem. Each pole represents a type of Gunditjmara Country, with significant flora and other environmental factors key to that Country type reflected in the carvings.

The designs include:

• Long Billed Cockatoo (Corella) – River Country

• Pelican – Sea Country

• Whip Snake – Stone Country

• Painted Quail – River Forrest Country

• Banksian Cockatoo (Red Tail) – Sky Country

These totem features play an important role in Gunditjmara stories and songlines and will be drawn upon in dances and ceremonies at the Dance Ground.

Glenelg Shire Mayor Cr Karen Stephens said Kardermudelar Karweeyn Mirring was created for healing, learning and connection, and benefits our whole community.

“Whilst the primary purpose of this space is to recognise and celebrate Gunditjmara people and culture through ceremony and gatherings, the space also remains available for general use,” Mayor Stephens said. “We encourage day to day enjoyment by everyone in the community.

“We thank the Victorian Government for their substantial investment in this project. We are proud to see this vision come to life and we look forward to the many shared experiences it will foster.”

An official opening event will take place in coming months.

For formal use, such as workshops, events or school usage, a formal booking is required and can be completed using the online booking form. For further information, visit the Glenelg Shire website.

Kardemudelar Karweeyn Mirring was funded by the State Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund and the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.