Unique signage structures are helping the community understand the special art and design features of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade – Stage 1.
Recently installed beside the upgrade’s shared walking and cycling path, the eye-catching bespoke structures are intended to interest and inform passing walkers and cyclists.
The signs explain how the art and design features, such as patterned wall panels and bird-footprint path etchings, reflect the area’s environment and Indigenous cultural heritage.
One of the signs is beside Belmont’s Jerringot wetland and the other is near the upgrade’s rail line bridge at Marshall.
Both locations were chosen for their proximity to a variety of the special features, which helps with context, to make understanding the relevance of each feature easier.
The signs, designed in collaboration with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (WTOAC), highlight the new features on the upgrade, which are a legacy of Major Road Project Victoria’s (MRPV) partnership with WTOAC.
MRPV engaged WTOAC to incorporate informed, meaningful Wadawurrung design in the upgrade and to improve connections with the Wadawurrung’s living cultural heritage and communities.
As the Registered Aboriginal Party for Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, WTOAC works to support their aspirations and protect their cultural heritage in accordance with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade – Stage 1 added lanes between Belmont and Charlemont, making travel safer and more reliable for all the road’s users.
Along with building the shared-use path and the rail line bridge, the upgrade also improved intersections and removed a dangerous level crossing.
The project was completed last year about 6 months ahead of schedule.
Planning is now underway for a potential Barwon Heads Road Upgrade – Stage 2, between Charlemont and Armstrong Creek.
Find out more about stages 1 and 2 on the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade project page.