Five new interpretive signs using Woiwurrung language have been installed along the Lilydale to Warburton Trail to connect community to Wurundjeri culture and language.
The signs featuring text, images and audio were developed by Yarra Ranges Council in consultation with Wurundjeri woman, Brooke Wandin as a way to tell Wurundjeri stories in their own tongue and to promote and preserve the Woiwurrung language.
Both Wurundjeri women, Mandy Nicholson and Brooke Wandin contributed voiceovers for some of the signs and Brooke said they have been designed to bring Woiwurrung language into the fabric of Yarra Ranges communities.
“Our language holds a lot of information about the past and is extremely important because it carries more than just words, but also law, family, connection to country, dance, and song.”
“All Victorian Indigenous languages are endangered and run the risk of vanishing, so hopefully these signs will help to raise awareness and peak people’s curiosity that they might go find out more about our language themselves.”
The audio signs which are also solar powered have been designed to be easily accessible with an interactive audio push button delivering pre-recorded stories, songs and language in the Woiwurrung language.
Located along the Warburton Rail trail, these signs are in Woori Yallock, Launching Place, and Mount Evelyn.
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Jim Child said these signs highlight and bring to life Wurundjeri histories and stories.
“These signs are not only a great addition to the trail, but an insight of some of our land’s most ancient and important stories, giving trail users a special opportunity to learn about Wurundjeri culture and the Woiwurrung language in a beautiful natural environment and in a very accessible way.
“The five interpretive signs bring local stories to interpret and strengthen our connection to the original custodians of this land and their rich cultural heritage and spiritual connection to this land.”
“We’re extremely grateful for the advice and support from Wurundjeri women Brooke Wandin and Mandy Nicholson whose knowledge of the Woiwurrung language and contribution to this project will hopefully bring more attention to the Woiwurrung language and assist in its revitalisation.”
