Imagine standing right here, in front of a mysterious circle of earth. This is the Wirilda Court Ring, an ancient archaeological wonder that whispers tales of a bygone era. This ring, along with others nearby, was painstakingly constructed by the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people, the traditional custodians of this land. It’s estimated to be between 590 and 1,400 years old.
These rings were formed by scraping away the topsoil and laying down a circular ridge. They are found in several locations around the Sunbury area, and are believed to be connected to significant cultural activities, possibly even ceremonies.
Interestingly, the Wirilda Court Ring along with the others in the area were once thought to be natural formations. But a recent archaeological study shed light on their true origin, confirming their creation by the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people.
Despite their cultural importance, many of these earth rings have been destroyed due to development, meaning that they remain a testament to the resilience and enduring connection to the land of the Indigenous people who once lived here. So, take a moment to appreciate the Wirilda Court Ring, a silent witness to the rich history of this region.