Country

This theme celebrates the natural environment of goranwarrabil (the Dandenong Ranges) as a source of creative inspiration and as a place of deep and abiding connection for Wurundjeri woiwurrung people

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Chenile Chandler, 'Call to Country'

“The words from Call to Country translate from woiwurrung to English as ‘come together as one, in the healing of our hearts’. The purpose of the Call to Country is to call everyone to ceremony – the spirit of our Ancestors, Elders, everyone, so that we can begin ceremony.”

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Country

In this section of ngurrak barring you will encounter Country and understand what it means for Aboriginal people. Aboriginal artists are connected to goranwarrabil (the Dandenongs) as their Traditional Country or as the place they have lived and worked. You will also encounter the contrast and contradiction of Country and ‘landscape’. European landscape artists were drawn to this beautiful place, and their interpretation of the mountain ash, fern, and lyrebirds, among other natural elements. As opposed to deep and inseparable connection between Aboriginal people and Country, European eyes saw the landscape at various times as separate, contained, scientific, romantic, and sometimes empty. This theme also explores how, despite the fracture and devastation of colonisation, Aboriginal people continue to practice culture in different and adaptive ways in this region.

Explore Country

Country trails connect Kallista, Belgrave and Birdsland, Belgrave Heights.

Whenever you’re visiting our national parks and state forests, please always check changes to trail conditions, and weather warnings, before beginning your walk. Be sure to take enough water, and wear suitable clothing for the conditions.