First Nations Playable Public Art Installed on Maribyrnong River

Trawlwoolway artist Edwina Green’s playable public art sculpture babanh-u laangi-yuyuk-a (Mother of Pearl) was permanently installed along the iconic Maribyrnong River as part of Moonee Valley City Council’s Reconciliation Week events. 

Mayor of Moonee Valley, Councillor Dr Rose Iser, said the impressive work explores themes of childhood, play, togetherness and renewal as well as honouring the cultural and environmental significance of the Maribyrnong River.  

“It is a beautiful piece of work, which references an oyster shell, and has contours that just make you want to touch and play on it,” Cr Iser said. 

“The artwork holds special significance for the artist’s Trawlwoolway mob and Wurundjeri Elders Aunty Julieanne and Aunty Gail who recall the mussels that were once found in the Maribyrnong River.  

Now it holds special significance for our local community as well. This new location is a well-loved destination for locals and visitors alike, whether they are rowing, walking their dogs, running or simply enjoying the outdoors.” 

In 2025, Moonee Valley City Council, the Incinerator Gallery, and project partner, Agency, awarded a major public art commission to Green to create the work. 

The project was generously joint-funded by the Victorian Government and Commonwealth Government under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), through the Community Recovery Hubs grant program after the 2022 flooding of the Maribyrnong River. 

“Recovery has been a long and ongoing journey,” Cr Iser said. 

“To remember the impacts of the flood, we have created lasting resources such as the River Audio Story project, a recent photo collage displayed at the Ascot Vale Library, and now Edwina Green’s artwork. All projects invite ongoing community reflection and commemoration.”  

ENDS