A major public artwork recognising the Nyoongar nation is on track for Fremantle after receiving more than $900,000 in support from Lotterywest.
The vision of Kaarl Boyak Naariny, ‘Fire is burning on the rocks’ by Whadjuk Nyoongar artist Sharyn Egan and Simon Gilby will be in the “civic heart” of Fremantle and amass large stones geographically aligned to the 14 Nyoongar nations.
It also includes a fire vessel, a field of illuminated stars and a digital display of stories from Nyoongar culture.
Last Friday it was announced Lotterywest would contribute $949,993 in grant funding, which will cover the creation and installation costs as well as an engagement process with the 14 Nyoongar nations.
The artwork is expected to take two years to deliver and will be considered as part of the city’s 2025-26 budget process.
Egan said the piece was an invitation to all Nyoongar language clans to be portrayed in Walyalup.
“Walyalup Koort is a special meeting place of the past, present and future,” she said.
“This artwork will create a sense of belonging and pride for all people.”
Fremantle mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the artwork would engage generations of people.
“This artwork, along with the city’s proposed plans for public realm upgrades to support the project, continues the transformation of what was previously known as Kings Square, now Walyalup Koort,” she said.
“This artwork will be a permanent and powerful reminder that the land on which we live, work and play is the traditional land of the Whadjuk people.
“It is a powerful expression of Fremantle’s genuine commitment to respect and recognition.”
The artwork will become central to Walyalup Koort, sitting between the St John’s Anglican Church and the Civic Centre building.
Fremantle’s town has been the centrepiece of a major revitalisation project that saw $270 million poured into renewing Kings Square, officially renamed Walyalup Koort in 2021 after a community engagement process.
Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk welcomed the work on Friday and said it provided “healing and growth” to the community.
“Public art has the ability to transform urban space, making them more vibrant, inclusive and culturally enriched,” she said.