A new Indigenous Interpretive Garden next to Maryborough’s Central Goldfields Art Gallery will celebrate the history of the local Dja Dja Wurrung culture for generations to come, with construction now underway thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced construction has begun on the garden, which is designed collaboratively with Dja Dja Wurrung Elders and local artists.
Led by Indigenous-owned enterprise DJANDAK in partnership with Central Goldfields Shire Council, the project is boosting local jobs and creating a vibrant space for the community to recognise, celebrate and pay tribute to the deep history and culture of the Dja Dja Wurrung people.
The garden will also feature stories with themes of fire and water to connect the site’s history next to the former heritage fire station built in 1861 – now the recently restored historic art gallery.
The Labor Government is making sure this region remains a vibrant community area for generations to come thanks to the Government’s $2 million Central Goldfields Art Gallery Revitalisation project. The project was funded through the Regional Infrastructure Fund, the Regional Tourism Investment Fund and the Regional Collections Access Program.
The refurbished art gallery and new Indigenous garden will build on the success of the gallery in the region’s arts and culture scene and are making Maryborough a must-stop destination for visitors.
The Indigenous Interpretive Garden construction is expected to be completed by mid-2024.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“We’re proud to see this new Indigenous garden come to life. It will provide another drawcard for visitors to Maryborough and its thriving arts and cultural scene and boost local jobs, businesses and the economy.”
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
“It’s great to see works beginning for this exciting project that will highlight Dja Dja Wurrung history and serve as an iconic place in Maryborough for years to come.”
As stated by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
“This new precinct is all about paying tribute and celebrating the history of our beautiful region and we’re thrilled to mark this important milestone.”
