The concept designs for two artworks aimed at assisting bushfire recovery were recently unveiled during a community dinner at Tonimbuk Hall.

The two artworks are part of a two-year bushfire creative recovery project titled “Meeting Place”, led by artists Janine Good of Drouin and Sue Jarvis of Gembrook.

The project’s goal was to work closely with the communities impacted by the Bunyip Complex Fires in March 2019 to create artworks for permanent display at the Tonimbuk Hall and Cannibal Creek Reserve.

“We wanted to support the community to create spaces to enhance sharing and the exchange of ideas; or quiet places to be still and listen within the bushfire affected area,” explained Ms Good.

“The input from the community informed the designs at every step,” added Ms Jarvis.  “Their reflections allowed the final artworks to embody the spirit of the local area and the community.”

The final artworks are now in progress and will be officially unveiled in March.

The artworks distil the essence of the surroundings with views of rolling hills and iconic landmarks such as Mt Cannibal and Cannibal Creek.  They also celebrate the native flora and fauna with the inclusion of threatened species such as the helmeted honeyeater and sooty owl.

The artwork concepts will be laser cut into corten steel by a local engineer.

The “Meeting Place” project has also involved the community in building a dry-stone wall at Tonimbuk Hall, sculptures using natural materials at Cannibal Creek Reserve, and a design workshop and the development of a nature walk within Cannibal Creek Reserve

Cardinia Shire mayor Jeff Springfield said creativity provided an important outlet to recognise the emotional impacts of such an event.

“These artworks serve to recognise and celebrate the strength of this community in the face of adversity,” he said.