Finding their own way home

By Kath Gannaway
WORK on Healesville’s community labyrinth project has taken an enforced breather over the past couple of months, but is now back on the agenda.
“We sent out a request for feedback on whether and how we continue with this project, in the midst of the tragedy of the bushfires and the need for rebuilding,” said Merran Macs, manager of Rivendell, the lead agency for the project.
“The consensus from the 50 or 60 people who responded was that we go full steam ahead,” she said.
As a community mental health service Rivendell was faced with increased demands on its staff post-7 February. On top of that, the project’s manager Julia Peddie, a Rivendell staff member and Narbethong resident, needed to step back from that role for a time.
“Where to now?” was a question that needed to be asked and the response was both heartening and empowering.
“The labyrinth can beautifully symbolise coming together, regeneration, and the journey – a journey which is full of adventure and joy as well as trouble and strife,” Ms Macs said. “And, it will be a beautiful addition to a beautiful place.”
The labyrinth, designed by international landscape architect Jon Coe, will be built in the parkland of Healesville’s tourist precinct, adjacent to the historic Healesville Railway Station. The design includes the labyrinth, a grape arbour, sungates, picnic tables, rain garden and wetlands.
The steering committee has made a submission for funding to the Department of Planning and Community Development to build the labyrinth in its entirety.
Ms Macs said if successful the project could be completed by the end of the year. If not, work would begin and continue in stages.
Community artists have been appointed to do the design for the mosaic artwork in the seating area and for the painted tiles which have been created over a number of tile-painting days over the past year. More tile-painting days are planned and for $10 people can create their own lasting piece of the labyrinth.
The committee is keen to build on the community support the project has attracted so far and is looking for volunteers for two key roles, project manager and volunteer co-ordinator. Also people are needed to help with market stalls, administration work, maintenance of the sand labyrinth, helping with tile painting days, sponsorship and maintenance of the website.
To find out more about the labyrinth project visit www.healesvillelabyrinth.org.au or phone Rivendell on 5962 2388.