Songlines imagery of the Gumbaynggirr, Yaegl and Bundjalung nations installed along the Pacific Highway from Woolgoolga to Ballina

 

https://youtu.be/cvLEgG2jOj4

 

The Echo, 9 June 2023: 

Aboriginal artworks have been installed at nine overpass bridges spanning four lanes on the new Pacific Motorway between Woolgoolga and Ballina on the north coast of New South Wales.

The new artworks along the Woolgoolga to Ballina Aboriginal Art Trail depict the creation stories and ancient travel routes (Songlines) of the Aboriginal nations of the region.

The Woolgoolga to Ballina Aboriginal Art Trail is part of the Pacific Highway upgrade project which also included upgrading nine interchanges, more than 170 bridges and more than 350 other connecting roads.

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot says the artworks tell the ‘Songlines’ of the Gumbaynggirr, Yaegl and Bundjalung nations, reflecting their physical and spiritual belonging, and connection to Country. ‘The artworks are in place on nine highway overpasses, along a 155-kilometre section of highway between Woolgoolga and Ballina.

‘The artists were selected by local Aboriginal communities and stakeholders, and their artworks communicate the rich and ancient history of these nations.’

Transport for NSW is planning a community event involving all the artists and their communities, to be held in the coming months.

For more information visit www.pacifichighway.nsw.gov.au/drive-songlines.

Australian Government-NSW Government Pacific Highway Upgrade: Drive The Songlines Aboriginal Art trail

Images by North Coast Aboriginal artists from 7 of the 13 sites along the highway

Iluka Interchange - southbound

Maclean Interchange - northbound

Woodburn Interchange - northbound

Tyndale Interchange - northbound

Coolgardie Interchange - northbound

Arrawarra Interchange - northbound

Glenugie Interchange - northbound

Click on images to enlarge