Launch of the New Gawa Trail markers

Almost 100 people from across Nillumbik gathered to celebrate the installation of new Trail Markers along the Gawa Wurundjeri Resource Trail on Watsons Creek.

People of all ages heard Uncle Bill Nicholson give a Welcome to Country in which he spoke of the Wurundjeri heroes who led their people through the times of white settlement: Simon Wonga, William Barak and his sister Annie.

After a Smoking Ceremony in which everyone walked through the smoke to signify their respect for Wurundjeri lore and land, Mandy Nicholson led the Djirri Djirri Dancers with clap sticks and singing. These rituals are the current form of the ancient Tanderrum.

Then it was time for refreshments and walking the trail. The new markers are bordered with a painting by  Wurundjeri artist Judy Nicholson and her Worimi partner Jamie McFayden.

The plaques, which are 80x40cm, give illustrated information about Wurundjeri life and their cultural past.  View and download the plaques on the Gawa Trail Markers page.