Indigenous signage unveiled at Birdsland Reserve

Signage has been unveiled at Birdsland Reserve, telling the Creation story of the platypus, thanks to a partnership between Council, and Indigenous community members Brooke Wandin, Amanda Wright and Mandy Nicholson.

The Indigenous Signage project has involved the development of several artworks, depicting the Dulaiwurrung (platypus) and the Wurundjeri story of its creation, installed at Birdsland Reserve, and at Coronation Park in Healesville. 

Aboriginal cultural heritage has also been recognised along the Olinda Creek trail in Lilydale with signage including photographs highlighting the significance of scar trees in the area.

Council’s Bushland team co-designed the project with Aboriginal consultant, Brooke Wandin. 

Mandy Nicholson, a Wurundjeri woman, provided the text for the story for the signage, while Amanda Wright, a local Aboriginal artist, created the artworks.

Jess Baillie, Council Aquatics Operations officer, who worked on the project, said the project will highlight Aboriginal culture in public spaces used every day.

"This project set about to bring visibility of Aboriginal culture into community bushland areas highlighting the cultural significance of nature to Aboriginal people," she said.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Tony Stevenson, said the signage would give residents the opportunity to hear Wurundjeri stories in their backyard and show visitors some of the region’s history.

“We have a rich history in the Yarra Ranges, with the Wurundjeri people being the traditional custodians of the Yarra Ranges and beyond for more than 35,000 years,” he said.

“You can find evidence of this rich cultural history right throughout the area, and it’s fantastic that we’ve been able to support and showcase this with the installation of these signs.

“I hope our residents and visitors alike will take the opportunity to read the story of the Dulaiwurrung, courtesy of this excellent partnership with Brooke Wandin, Amanda Wright and Mandy Nicholson.”