SAMSON PARK CELEBRATES THE NYOONGAR SEASONS

A sign depicting and describing the Nyoongar six seasons has been unveiled at beautiful Samson Park.

The Friends of Samson Park volunteer group first suggested the installation of a sign about the historical and cultural significance of Nyoongar people in the Samson Park area.

With that in mind, the City of Fremantle consulted Nyoongar Elder Freda Ogilvie. Freda explained how each of the Nyoongar six seasons (Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba, and Kambarang) affects the flora and fauna found within the park.

Year six students from Samson Park Primary School were invited by the City to create an artwork for each season.

The students gathered in the park and were given paper and coloured pens to draw their interpretation of each season from Freda’s description.

The sign is located at the bush node on the corner of Sellenger Avenue and McCombe Avenue.

Newly installed log seating beside the sign provides a natural space for the community to sit and enjoy nature and the students to learn about local flora and fauna.

Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the sign is a welcome addition.

“Samson Park is the most significant bush reserve in Fremantle. Its winding nature trails are teeming with wildlife all year round and this sign gives context to the visitor experience.”

Comment: That’s a start, Fremantle Council. Now get on with naming and dual naming significant Aboriginal sites in our city. It has been talked about forever, but far too little has been implemented.

Roel Loopers