A Yarning Circle, a special culturally safe place and learning area at the Koala Conservation Centre was officially opened on the weekend. Patrice Mahoney (centre) was one of three local artists who worked alongside young indigenous artists on the project.
The project includes yarning sticks, mosaic pavers, a mosaic firepit and a mural that represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and the flora and fauna of the woodlands environment.
A Yarning Circle, a special culturally safe place and learning area at the Koala Conservation Centre was officially opened on the weekend.
Despite the wet weather, a crowd gathered for the official opening which included a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, followed by a morning tea.
Phillip Island Nature Parks (PINP) said the project has been in the works for the past six months to create “a culturally safe place that is a versatile learning space designed to expand the environmental and cultural awareness of anyone that gathers there”.
The project came about through discussions with Bunurong and members of the First Nations community and was aimed at providing young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists with an opportunity to work as commissioned artists to design and create a collection of art installations.
Earlier this year, Visitor Experience Manager Kate Adams said engaging young people would open opportunities for youth to learn about local wildlife, conservation efforts and the island’s habitat through art-based activities.
“This fun, engaging public art project will provide opportunities for young people to learn more about Phillip Island Nature Parks and the important conservation work we undertake, as well as connecting them with like-minded peers,” Ms Adams said.
In May, PINP engaged three young artists, Arieta Fergie, Lenna Scholtmeyer, and Rhylee Duell to work alongside local artists, Patrice Mahoney OAM, Lizzy Rich and Heather Fahnle.
“Together they have done an amazing job in creating various artworks including yarning sticks, mosaic pavers, a mosaic firepit and a mural that represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and the flora and fauna of the woodlands environment,” a Nature Parks spokesperson said.
Youth volunteers and youth groups have also helped, working on the mosaics and the garden, with PINP describing the result as “a great example of how community can work together, share knowledge, be creative and produce what is a beautiful new space for everyone to enjoy”.
