Indigenous sculptures unveiled

By Lachlan Ellis

New sculptures at two Moorabool mineral springs have been unveiled, acknowledging Indigenous connection to the two sites.

A launch event for the two sculptural artworks was held at Spargo Creek Mineral Springs Reserve last Tuesday, where one of the works has been installed, while the other is located at the Ballan Mineral Springs Reserve.

The three-metre-tall sculptures, made from the same 120-year-old piece of locally sourced redgum split in two, were commissioned by Council, with funding from the State Government, and designed by cultural consultants MURRI:YUL.

The sculptures both draw your attention, and showcase Wadawurrung language and the significance of the mineral springs sites to Traditional Owner groups and the local environment.

MURRI:YUL Co-Directors Dr Heather Threadgold and proud Wadawurrung woman Melinda Kennedy invited attendees to take in the new sculpture at the Spargo Creek event, with Ms Kennedy opening the ceremony with a smoking ceremony.

The pair, who have over 30 years combined experience in cultural management, anthropology, Aboriginal perspectives, landscape architecture, and urban design, say the sculptures provide a greater sense of place for visitors, aiding their understanding and awareness of the diverse values of the mineral springs, and the traditional role of mineral water.

In the traditional spirit of gift-giving, each attendee at the launch event was given a small container of water from the Spargo Creek Mineral Springs.

Mayor Cr Rod Ward said reflecting cultural heritage is a cornerstone of contemporary public art in Australia and elsewhere.

“These new sculptures reflect the diverse ecologies of First Peoples lands and are a wonderful acknowledgement of the Shire’s Indigenous culture. As a community, we are unbelievably lucky to have our natural assets enhanced through public artwork that engages community members and fosters a sense of civic pride and belonging,” Cr Ward said.

“I encourage everyone to visit the mineral springs and new sculptures soon.”