Themed ‘In this together’ National Reconciliation Week 2020 marks the 20th anniversary of the reconciliation walk on roads and bridges across the nation. This year we're celebrating coming together to work as a team on the landscaping and memorial park at Barongarook Creek, Colac where a new bridge was built as part of the $363 million Princes Highway West duplication project.
Working closely with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) a dedicated memorial space and indigenous landscaping scheme was developed that recognises the Traditional Owners of the land and the importance of the indigenous history in the area. The revamped space includes pathways, seating and a reflection space - a community space for everyone to enjoy and explore.
The introduction of indigenous and native plants and trees reflects the cultural significance and sensitivity of the area. The landscaped park is now planted with a mixture of native grasses, shrubs and trees, including:
- drooping she-oak
- river red gum
- manna gum
- myrtle wattle
- golden wattle
- woolly tea tree.
River red gums are commonly found near creeks and rivers, and provide nesting hollows for galahs, cockatoos, cockatiels and various parrots.
In addition to Aboriginal staff participating throughout the Barongarook Creek project, verified Aboriginal businesses also supplied safety products, signage and branding.
Work on the Princes Highway duplication was completed in 2019. Find out more about the Princes Highway West - Winchelsea to Colac upgrade.
