LOVING the collaboration and sense of community in Toodyay.
A solid example is the recent discussion regarding a concept design for a joint lookout project at Pelham Reserve overlooking Toodyay (Dudja, meaning mist).
The Noongar Kaartdijin Aboriginal Corporation recently met with the Water Corporation, the Toodyay Naturalists’ Club, Toodyay Friends of the River, Toodyay Historical Society and the shire reserves management team and all agreed to work closely on the planning.
Read more
As most locals are aware, Pelham Reserve has 50ha of bushland, contains WWII features and the dam and spillway from the town’s original water supply.
It has four walking tracks, so it is a seriously awesome location to add more exciting elements to.
It’s early days but this concept will include a large Noongar Country (Boodja) interpretation board overlooking the town and valley, explaining in Noongar language what you are looking at, along with Wagyl (rainbow serpent) dreamtime artworks on the water tank pipe.
Other components of the project being led by the other groups involved is to use this opportunity to update and renew signage at the site including the geographical history (how the valley was formed), European settlement and key dates, flora and fauna of the region which will include those found within each of the Noongar six seasons (Bonar).
The next step will be to get the concept design and planning requirement finalised but keep your eye out for exciting activities not too far down the track.
Love this place and community people who are keen to acknowledge the past (both Aboriginal and European) through a respectful and collaborative project.
Helen Shanks
Toodyay
