Circular Projects » process-page2

Community engagement was integral to the Circular project. We spent time at the Point Cook town centre, in the surrounding area, and met with many people who could help us learn about it.

Point Cook falls within the boundary of the Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung language groups. Both groups have claimed the area as part of their traditional land, and the boundary delineation is currently before the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council.

We met with representatives from local Indigenous communities, the Boonwurrung Foundation and the Wurundjeri Tribe Land & Compensation Cultural Heritage Council. They helped us gain a greater understanding of traditional Indigenous life, practices, crafts and history in the Point Cook area.

We visited the Werribee District Historical Society Museum for discussions with the society’s president about Point Cook history, and to identify sites of historical and cultural significance.

We toured the estate of Point Cook Homestead to learn about the Chirnside family, its history, and the homestead’s future directions.

We visited the RAAF Museum for insights into the history of Australian military aviation, the Australian Flying Corps, the Royal Australian Air Force and the significance of the RAAF base.

As part of a visit to the Point Cook Coastal Park and Cheetham Wetlands, we used the Parks Victoria library facilities to identify bird life and flora recorded in the park, which we discussed with park rangers.

We consulted the manager of the Point Cook Library about the library’s role within the community, participated in a Conversations in English class and observed a Rhyme Time activity. We toured the Point Cook Community Learning Centre and learned about the wide range of activities and facilities available.

We enjoyed a visit to a grade 5-6 class at Carranballac P-9 College, Boardwalk campus. The students made drawings of Point Cook in the future, and discussed their hopes for the area. When the project is complete we will visit the school to explain the stages of the project, our approach, why the students’ participation was important, and the final outcome.

Findings
One of the primary discoveries to emerge is the importance of children and young families in Point Cook. Children told us that they want Point Cook to be a place filled with adventure, fun, parks, gardens and a strong community spirit.

Further research  & practical considerations
Our research into the stories of Point Cook used extensive and diverse material. The project involved consultation with structural engineers, pattern-makers, iron foundries, installers and the Wyndham City Council. This included a risk assessment and other practical issues about the fabrication and installation of the artworks.