WADEYE PUBLIC PARK

The Kardu Diminin people wanted to create a public park in Wadeye that would provide a place for all people to come together and socialise in healthy and respectful ways. The working group advised the Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo was a spiritual animal recognised by most clans in Wadeye and a suitable symbol to be used to design the park.

We took the image of the Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo flying over the land protecting people on the land and set this image as the path network on the ground. The outline is visible from the air but also perceptible walking around on the ground. We elevated the tail of the cockatoo as an entrance feature to the park across from the store. The shade structure also covers the accessible playground which includes climbing, swinging, balancing and fun activities. Down the cockatoo’s body we have a double flying fox for people to race each other to the end. The park also includes irrigated grass and shade trees for people to spread out through the park. There are art shelters to encourage people to do art works together and a stage for small and large community concerts.

On the walkways there are also place making story boards for the community to tell the stories of their history, cultural identity and the future of Wadeye. The park design has been widely accepted by the community and is awaiting funding to proceed.