Bunjil Nganga - ‘Eagle View’

We worked with Lewis Wandin Bursill’s wood carving designs to represent the flight of Bunjil over Country.

‘Bunjil the Eagle is the Creator Spirit to Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people. Bunjil created all the animals, geographical features and man and woman. He had six helpers, including Waa the Crow, Pallyann the Bat and others. Bunjil exists as a star in the night sky in the Aquila’. (Aunty Kim)

The wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax) as a peak predator plays a vital role in reducing impacts of the overabundance of herbivores and feral animals such as cats foxes and rabbits. They also play an important role as scavengers. They play a critical role in ecosystem function and provide a range of benefits to farmers, such as pest control and property hygiene.

Since the beginning of time Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people have cared for Wurundjeri Country. Our concept is inspired by the flightpaths of Bunjil. This area was renamed Bunjil Nganga Parkland (from Foothills Parkland) based on community consultation and a cultural values study. The area is culturally rich where artefacts have been found and ceremonial sites have been identified. Nearby is the soon to be site of the Whittlesea Aboriginal Gathering Place.

Concept, coordination, curation: Murrup Biik

Original wood carving: Lewis Wandin Bursill

Graphics and Application: The Garage Signshop

Client: City of Whittlesea

Site: Foothills Parkland