This
exhibition is a display of all of the entries in the’ OUR RIVER’
competition, which focuses on the Maribyrnong River, in the large bluestone
building of Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West, located in Pipemakers
park.
The competition was organized by the office of
Nicola Roxon MP Federal Member for Gellibrand.
The purpose of the competition was to allow anyone interested in the river
to play a part in preserving the social history of the Maribyrnong River,
and highlighting its local importance.
Requests were made for interested people to submit a piece of writing
or artwork inspired by their favourite part of the Maribyrnong River.
“The Maribyrnong – once known as Saltwater River – is an
iconic natural feature in Melbourne’s west. Derived from the Aboriginal
term Mirring-gnaybir-nong. Originally the home to the Woimurrung and Boonwurrung
tribes, after European settlement the river become a hub for Melbourne’s
industrial growth in the late 1800s – and provided employment for
countless Victorians. But this growth took its environmental toll and
the river suffered severe damage. Now our river is becoming a recreational
highlight in the region—perfect for picnics, bike riding, fishing,
rowing and much, much more. We have the opportunity to restore and preserve
the river for generations to come.”
The exhibition OUR RIVER consists of over 150 entries including both writing
and pictures. The entries were judged under the following categories…
Primary School—Writing
Primary School—Art
Secondary School—Writing
Secondary School—Art
Adult—Writing
Adult—Art.
The exhibition was opened on Friday the 10th September 2004 by Nicola
Roxon MP Federal Member for Gellibrand and will be on display until Sunday
19th September 2004. The works on this website are samples of the competition
entries.
Opening hours for visiting the exhibition, and the Living Museum, are:
Monday – Friday 10 am – 4 pm and Sunday’s
11 am – 5 pm.
To view images click below
