National Reconciliation Week will see the grand opening of the new Yangga Dyata - Walking on Country Silo artwork commencing with a smoking ceremony at 6pm at 35 Wawunna Road on Friday 27 May.
A walk on country will follow the opening, with the route following Yangga Tyerrang Street (Firebrace Street) through to Warta Tyerrang Muwil Park (Sawyer Park).
Chair of Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and Clarke Family Representative Dylan Clarke notes this is an important achievement.
"I believe this is a significant accomplishment for reconciliation week, and is a demonstration of quality partnerships across our region. The Silo depicts an iconic story of our region and connects both sides of our communities to a history that recognises the importance of traditional practices and methods."
Mayor Robyn Gulline states that the Silo is a significant achievement.
"I am really looking forward to celebrating the opening of the new silo artwork, which celebrates Wotjobaluk warrior Yanggendyinanyuk and the wider themes of reconciliation, resilience and respect."
Projections featuring Wotjobaluk Nations' artwork, curated by Natimuk ACT will light the way and the walk will end at Warta Tyerrang Muwil Park (Sawyer Park) for a presentation of a new artwork titled, 'Let's take those steps' by local Gunditjmara and Wotjobaluk artist Tanisha Lovett.
Tanisha notes the importance of Reconciliation Week, "In the theme of my artwork we acknowledge the land we are walking on. Where we take our steps, following in the steps of our ancestors. We need to come together to care for the land and take care of each other. It's time to take those steps together to achieve this."
Following this attendees will be able to enjoy live music by Dallas Woods. Dallas has used his song writing as a powerful platform to speak about his experiences in life as an Indigenous man, the justice system, racial stereotyping and his own personal struggles. With a no holding back approach to writing, the 26 year old uses wit and wordplay to get his messages out, weaving comments on big issues into rapid-fire rhymes. Mentoring Baker Boy through his entire career and having huge moments himself through 2020 - 2021 with his recent releases.
The Yangga Dyata – Walking on Country Silo Art Project and street projections are supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.
