Garden Village Unveils Birpai Artwork “Mara Murrung yawutungga”
Garden Village is set to unveil a new contemporary Birpai Artwork titled “Mara Murrung yawutungga” this September, welcoming guests and visitors to the community. The artwork, created by local Birpai artist Nardja Carter, is influenced by coastal living and Birpai Creation stories passed down by her grandmother, who was cared for at Garden Village.
“Mara Murrung yawutungga” Go well on a journey
“The Artwork is named ‘Mara Murrung yawutungga’ which translates to ‘Go Well on a Journey.’ We are all travellers in this world, each at a different point in our journey. Some are just beginning, while others have been on their paths for quite some time. Some set out from distant lands, while others simply step out from their front door. But it’s when our paths intersect with others a community begins to take shape. A community where knowledge and experiences are shared, enriching the journey for all involved. It is in these moments of convergence that we learn to care and show respect and compassion for those who have travelled further down the road.” said Nardja.
Care Compassion Connections
The artwork is a nature inspired handpainted custom acrylic on canvas symbolising the caring community moving through the rhythms of life. Garden Village is located in a beautiful leafy neighbourhood next to nature reserves with views of the coast and hinterland.
CEO Craig Wearne commented, “The artwork represents our commitment to caring for elders and all older people in our community and providing nurturing environments for people to age in place. It also supports our commitment to reconciliation and creating a culturally safe and inclusive workplace.”
“We have enjoyed collaborating with Nardja on this project,” added Mr. Wearne. “Her artistic interpretation beautifully captures the essence of Garden Village. We look forward to unveiling the new artwork with residents, employees, and the community.”
The unveiling ceremony will take place on September 19 at 10:00 am. The event will feature:
- Morning tea with local bush teas and jams, Nardja will share her knowledge about the key ingredients
- Scones prepared by Garden Village Chefs
- A Virtual Reality SilVR Adventure NAIDOC session
This new artwork represents Garden Village’s commitment to compassion, care, and community connections, while honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Birpai people.
As we prepare to unveil these stunning artworks, we look forward to sharing the complete narrative with residents and community.
Garden Village engaged Nardja after attending the Saltwater Freshwater Aboriginal Festival in 2023 and meeting artists from the Storyplace Collective where we we inspired by Nardja’s artwork featured in the Nyiirunba Djuyalbaa Magazine.
The NAIDOC Virtual Reality session is a celebration of Australian First Nations Song and Dance called Carriberrie.
This immersive 360-degree film takes viewers on a journey across Australia, showcasing traditional and contemporary performances. Narrated by David Gulpilil, the experience begins with a performance by Bangarra Dance Theatre at the Sydney Opera House and travels to various locations including Uluru, Arnhem Land, Torres Strait Islands, Queensland rainforest, Byron Bay and Darwin.
Through virtual reality it provides an intimate and breathtaking look at Aboriginal cultural heritage.
The film blends ancient traditions with modern expressions, allowing viewers to experience the diversity and evolution of Indigenous Australian dance and music in stunning natural settings across the continent.
Thanks to donations from residents and the Garden Village community; and a grant from Port Macquarie Hastings Council Community Grants Program, Garden Village is proud to have launched a Virtual Reality Program for residents. Thanks to the generosity of the community, residents can enjoy armchair travel all around the world from the comfort of their home promoting social engagement and cognitive stimulation.
