GrainCorp Silos at Sea Lake - Victoria

Titled 'The Space In Between'

Source: The Zookeeper

Feature Image by Ron Bonham

The GrainCorp Silos at Sea Lake were painted by Joel Fergie, aka The Zookeeper, and Travis Vinson, aka Drapl in October 2019.

The artwork depicts a young girl swinging from a mallee eucalyptus tree and gazing out over the endless vista that is Lake Tyrrell. A powerful Wedge Tail Eagle saws above the girl and emus ran off into the night. For millennia this lake has existed, unchanged and untouched. It is a place of wonder and story. In this ever-increasing busy day and age, people universally long for space and solitude.

'During our research into the history of the region, we learned of the stories of the Boorong people. The stories of early indigenous astrology were recorded in 1857 by a local of the Mallee, William Edward Standbridge. The Boorong were known to have more knowledge of astronomy than any other tribe. The boorong would use the stars to navigate the seasons, knowing that particular flora and fauna would be available as the constellations above changed throughout the year. After reaching out to several indigenous NGOʼs we were directed to a few indigenous community members with connections to the Boorong. We made contact with a local indigenous artist Robby Wirramanda who shared a few interesting stories of his ancestors. It became clear to us that these stories are deeply important stories of the Boorong. A high level of sensitivity should be taken in ensuring that these stories be told by those with connection to the Boorong and or the language group of the Wergaia. In the design, Robbyʼs wooden sculptural works are depicted in the centre of the design. Robby describes these sculptures as representations of his ancestors. They have been installed on the salt flats of Lake Tyrrell previously and pay homage to his people who roamed these lands.' says Joel

It was all made possible by

The entire community of Sea Lake, The Buloke Shire Council, and GrainCorp for supplying the incredible canvas. Robby Jackie Wirramanda for sharing his stories. Ron Bonham for capturing the stunning photo of the Wedge Tail and Wattyl Paint.