 The idea of building our totem in a way of a huge 3D sculpture monument has come about after years of consultation, research and trial and error by many Aboriginal leaders around Australia. The idea of building totem monument has been tried by Gudjuda people of Burdekin Shire and has proven to be a stunning success for both the Indigenous and the whole community. They have constructed a 61 meters long carpet snake by the Bruce highway with a small craft shop next to it. As a result they have succeeded to attract tourist and buyers for their local craft and products and are able to provide regular story telling sessions for local schools. Based on this success story we would like to build our totem in an interesting and interactive way. Please see the attached model photos.
The location for this monument by the ocean on the traditional Alngith land which is visible both from the ocean and the main road has been chosen by the traditional elders. Cyclone is our main totem and we believe that we have been protected for thousands of years by the spirit of the cyclone. There is no art feature in and around Weipa representing the culture, mythology and cultural heritage of the first people of the area. For us, our cultural heritage and art is an important feature of our way of life. Our totems tell us who we are, and what are our traditional values.
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