Longwe Tree sculpture installation begins

Published on 23 August 2016

Installation of the second major piece of public art for the Riverfront Redevelopment began last week, with the Longwe Tree Sculpture being lowered into a prime position in the Water Play area.

The Longwe (or canoe) Tree is a contemporary interpretation of a ‘scarred tree’ which dot the river country and signify a continued connection between the first people and country for thousands of years.

A collaborative process between Mildura Riverfront Aboriginal Reference Group and local artist Lindsay Butcher, the Longwe Tree was constructed by Meridian Engineering.

Tribal Elder and Aboriginal Reference Group member Aunty Janine Wilson said the depiction of traditional culture in a modern way along the riverfront has special meaning for the Aboriginal community.

“To see so much of our culture acknowledged in such beautiful ways in the redevelopment is wonderful,” Aunty Janine said.  “Scar trees are very significant to our peoples and I’m pleased to see the Longwe Tree given pride of place.”

The artwork will include specialised lighting and a traditional garden which is being specially designed by the Indigenous members of Council’s Parks and Gardens Riverfront Team.

Arts and Culture portfolio Councillor Jill Joslyn said the public art aspect of the Riverfront Redevelopment is very important to the overall feel of the entire precinct.

“The Longwe Tree is a wonderful interpretation of a scar tree and once it starts to weather and the gardens and lighting are complete, it will look even more amazing,” Cr Joslyn said. 

“From an arts and cultural perspective, art is often designed to inspire, to tell stories and to grow understanding and appreciation for other ways of thinking.  I think this does all those things and more.”

Other Aboriginal artwork along the riverfront includes the Memories sculpture and mosaic by Badger Bates and a Welcome to Country and traditional smoking pit along the Langtree Connection.  Boundary trees also mark significant points in the precinct.

The island will remain closed off to the public for a short period while the work is finalised with an official unveiling will be planned in the coming weeks.

ENDS