Garden from above

An indigenous garden inspired by the artwork of local artist Eileen Harrison may be brought to life in Warragul’s Rotary Park.

With permission from Dr Aunty Eileen, Warragul Rotary Club has commissioned a landscape design based upon one of her recent paintings.

But, the project needs funding support.

Warragul Rotarians Andrea Klindworth and Chris Major presented to project to a Baw Baw Shire budget submissions meeting last week.

Mr Major said Dr Aunty Eileen’s painting represented a gathering place, and through the work of local landscape artist Prue Metcalfe, the painting had been brought to life as a garden.

“Nothing in the town symbolises what the town was unique for prior to settlement,” he said.

Ms Klindworth said the Rotary Club wanted to shape an indigenous art garden within the Rotary Park precinct.

“Through the landscape design, you will actually be able to walk into the painting,” she said.

Animal footprints inlaid in concrete will tell indigenous stories in the tracks of the garden.

Ms Klindworth said the outer circle represented a celebration of education and learning about Kurnai culture, while totems throughout the garden will represent birds important to the Kurnai people.

The garden foundation, including the paths and central meeting circle is expected to cost $122,000, of which Warragul Rotary will contribute $25,000.