Aboriginal artists celebrate North Coast songlines

Their art has brightened the Pacific Motorway and now the Aboriginal artists responsible for the impressive works on nine overpasses between Woolgoolga and Ballina have gathered to celebrate with the community.

The artists and members of the various communities the art represents, celebrated their work at the motorway rest area at Mororo, north of the Iluka turn off.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the artworks improved the highway experience for locals and tourists but, more importantly, provided a deep connection with the Aboriginal history and culture of the region.

“Transport for NSW employed engagement and design specialists Balarinji to work with key Aboriginal stakeholders, including local Elders, knowledge holders and artists to develop the artworks,” the spokesperson said.

“The local Aboriginal community was involved throughout the process and local Elders and knowledge holders were placed at the centre of decision making.

“The new artworks along the Woolgoolga to Ballina Aboriginal Art Trail depict the creation stories and ancient travel routes (Songlines) of the Aboriginal nations of the region.

“The artworks depict nine stories from three Aboriginal nations of the region, Gumbaynggirr, Yaegl, and Bundjalung, and tell the songlines of those nations, reflecting their physical and spiritual belonging and connection with Country.

“The artists chosen from the Gumbaynggirr community were Daniel Dootson, Debby Taylor and Reece Flanders while Aneika Kapeen, Frances Belle Parker, Gilbert Laurie and the late Jessica Birk were selected to represent the Yaegl community and Marcus Ferguson, Oral Roberts and Sheldon Harrington represented Bundjalung.

“It is fitting the community came together to celebrate their work.” 

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