Wagga’s Wiradjuri have unveiled a hand-weaved goanna effigy inside the Marrambidya Wetland.
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“The goanna, or the gugaa, is the totem of the great nation of Wiradjuri,” said Uncle James Ingram.
“It unites us and gives us our identity. We have respect for him, and in return he watches over us,”
A coalition of 10 artists in the Hands On Weavers group completed the original design. Made with plant materials, the weaving will weather. Yet it also will continue to be reborn through the community.
“We used all sorts of things, willow, paperbark, raffia grass,” said Aunty Lorraine Tye.
“We’re hoping we’ll be able to use parts of the wetland, depending on the weather, so that the land can sustain it. It will be a living artwork.”
During an official unveiling on Monday, weavers Aunty Lorraine Tye and Aunty Joyce Hampton, were also presented with NAIDOC awards.
In time, the goanna will become one of many totem displays adorning the sight.
“I would like to see the whole fence line eventually covered with weaving,” said Uncle James.
Despite its position in the open air, the weavers do not expect the work will meet foul ends.
“We’ve been very lucky with all our pieces, nothing has ever been vandalised,” said Aunty Lorraine.
“I’d hope it is more than luck, I’d hope it’s the respect.”