Working with Coffs Harbour City Council NADA created and developed a contemporary Aboriginal design reflecting the cultural significance of the West Woolgoolga Sports Complex site for the Northern Gumbaynggirr people.
Through an expression of interest process the design team with Council, Garby Elders and other key stakeholders selected an artwork by Dharug artist Tulli Stevens. Tulli is recognised by local Elders of the Gumbaynggirr Nation and is embraced as belonging to Gumbaynggirr land and mob. The title of her artworks is ‘Gawbarri’ which means, ‘meet, get together, gather’ in Gumbaynggirr language.
“Gawbarri pays homage to beautiful Woolgoolga, where the rainforest meets the sea. It consists of one single continuous line throughout the ocean inspired background. The dot painting in the centre represents the rainforest and bush tucker, the Wiigul (black apple tree) with the fruit being foraged. The continuous line representing the walking tracks, journeys and stories held on the land of the proposed site. The pathways lead to the centre, bringing the community together to a meeting place.”
Tulli Stevens
Photo credit: Images courtesy of Coffs Harbour City Council