“Bunjil,” a voice echoes. It resonates here at the Entrance of Significance in Melbourne. This space honors Aboriginal spirits. It stands as a testament to the Kulin Nation.
The Entrance of Significance is more than just an artwork. It is a metal sign. It represents a deep connection to the land. It embodies the spirit of Bunjil. Bunjil is the spiritual creator. He took the form of a wedge-tailed eagle. He gave life to Victoria’s First People. He created the rivers and mountains. He populated the land with animals and trees. All are living and natural things in the Kulin Nation.
Mandy Nicholson designed this artwork. The Entrance of Significance was erected in 2014. It serves as a reminder of the area’s long history. It acknowledges the Indigenous clans of the Kulin Nation. These clans occupied the area long before white settlement.
Close to rich food sources, Melbourne had been home to them. These resources came from Port Phillip and surrounding grasslands. The new arrivals grew the area’s population quickly. By 1869, it reached 700000. This growth had a devastating impact on Victoria’s First People.
Today, the Kulin Nation continues to thrive. They practice and strengthen their customs. They do this in urban Melbourne through the Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung people.
The Melbourne Story exhibition explores this history. It starts from the earliest contact. This was between white settlers and local Indigenous people. The exhibition uses historical stories and artefacts. Images and interactive components are also used. They illustrate the unfolding Melbourne story. It is seen through the eyes of its citizens. This includes Indigenous peoples, settlers, and refugees. It includes those who found ‘the good life’. It also includes those who struggled to survive.
Land that had supported Aboriginal people was transformed. This happened within two decades. It was claimed by Europeans. Settlers brought diseases. These diseases contributed to the decimation of the local Aboriginal population. Streets were laid. The first buildings were constructed.
Remember the Entrance of Significance. It is a place to reflect. It is a place to remember the past. It is a place to honor the enduring spirit of the Kulin Nation.