In February 2022, we had the honour of successfully winning a tender and bringing together three amazing mural artists to collaborate on an epic public art job for Transport for NSW, John Holland and the community of Eurobodalla Shire on the new Batemans Bay Bridge crossing the Bhundoo River/Clyde River.
The Bhundoo River (Clyde River), traditionally occupied by the Walbunja people from the Yuin nation, has long been a giving and collective place of stories still to this day.
We thought no better way than to pay our respects to the community, river and elders of this land past, present and future through this artwork titled ‘The Giving River’ by mural artists David Cragg, Kim Siew and Nico.
The artists pulled out all strings with extensive research, consulting with the community, collaborating on a design and eventually painting it, with the help of some amazing assistants, over 10 days on two large surfaces which face each other under the new Batemans Bay Bridge.
The Giving River
Dividing lands, the river brings us together through twists and turns.
Buried stories along its shores never to be forgotten.
Its breathing tides feed new life under Didthul (pigeon house mountain).
A bouquet of Waratahs, Banksias, Wattles, Flannel Flowers, Silver Wattle, Golden Guinea Flowers greet the banks.
Whilst the free swimming fish are hunted under the clear ripples.
Under the watchful eye of Wujaan (white breasted sea eagle)
Wildly creeping pig face flowers, Native Sarsparilla and Lance Beard Heath are picked and eaten.
Midden shells hold stories. Gathered along the rocks.
Emerging later under the starry night sky.
Umbarra, a black duck stands strong as a totem and pillar of strength.
The water in this river has weaved in and out,
Through life and death, through vast country, and sacred places and mountains.
It has lived through the smallest moments over the longest of time.
It needs the respect it deserves for the generations to come across.
Retaining wall progress video
Pier getting a mural progress video
