Bullanginya Dreaming — a magical attraction
Since opening on May 24, the Sporties super attraction, Bullanginya Dreaming, has seen about 3000 visitors stroll a distance of 1.8km alongside the banks of the Bullanginya Lagoon where they have become mesmerised by a spectacular laser light show.
It is extraordinary and has, in fact, been touted to be the only permanent project of its kind in Australia.
Now, does that pique your interest?
Last week I joined friends on the walk, including two teenagers, Julian and Olivia Brooks, grandchildren of Rosemary and Patrick Brooks, who live in Sydney, through this spectacular Luna Light Journey.
We were totally gobsmacked at the experience, particularly the two teens. It was not only a visual smorgasbord but presented an auditory history of the Bangarang people, known as ‘The People of the Tall Trees’.
On the journey, visitors learned about local Indigenous history through 12 unique educational installations depicting the elemental forces of light, water and fire.
They also learned about the significance of local animals, birds and flora to Indigenous people and how quickly the environment could recover from the devastation caused by flooding and bushfires.
We were transfixed by the most amazing laser light show highlighting massive gums and surrounding foliage, forcing everyone to stop and remain motionless while taking it all in. The lights, the colours, the tall trees, all of it — a complete spectacle.
The tour is an absolute must for children of primary school age, presenting a unique opportunity for them to gain a better understanding and appreciation of our First Nations people and overcome the lack of knowledge we share in the lives of our Indigenous people.
This marvellous experience ended with mouthwatering marshmallows toasted over the fire pit, completing something rare and special, right on our doorstep.
The project required a significant investment from Sporties Barooga when the decision was made five years ago to go dollar for dollar with the NSW Government.
It has taken a lot to complete this unique project and the Bangarang people have provided significant input into its development. All involved should feel proud of the finished project.
It will undoubtedly put the area on the map for tourism and, if marketed significantly online, has potential to attract overseas visitors.
However, at present, the hope is to attract as many locals as possible to enjoy this amazing experience.
On Saturday, August 31 the first session of the day will be devoted to the traditional owners of the land and comprise a smoking ceremony followed by toasted marshmallows and a special performance by a Bangarang dance troupe.
Purchase your tickets for Friday or Saturday nights by visiting bullanginyadreaming.com.au/
Ash plays 150th game
Ashlee Russo reached a special milestone last Saturday, when she played her 150th game of netball with Cobram Tigers’ A-grade side, in the Murray Football/Netball Association.
At the age of 20 and in her 11th year of netball, Ash’s love of the game has never waned, nor has her love for her club.
“I love the netball community we have here, and I would not go anywhere else,” she said.
A mid-court player, generally playing centre or wing attack, this is her third season in A-grade, and she is relishing the opportunity to play among such strong competition.
It appears that Ashlee’s netball talent is inherited from her mum, Felicity, and grandmother Anna Wilson, both of whom had a talent for the sport.
Away from the netball courts, Ash is working on her career and currently studying online for a degree in health sciences at Deakin University and would ultimately like to work in sports rehabilitation.
She has enjoyed many years injury-free, apart from sustaining a sprained ankle. A good record considering ankle and knee injuries are relatively common in the sport.
However, she understands that fitness is the main consideration when playing such a fast-paced, intense sport to help protect your body from injury, so working out and training is never an issue.
Well-known mural artist secured for Mivo Park
Arts for All Inc has secured the talents of recognised mural artist Jimmy Dvate to enhance the amenities block at Mivo Park.
Dvate is a renowned contemporary artist who specialises in large public projects, having produced amazing work around Australia and overseas.
Expressions of interest were received from very talented artists, with a decision made to employ Dvate to enhance the site, which occupies a high-profile presence in the centre of town.
While the design is under wraps at present, the community will be informed of the commencement date.
If anyone has any other sites in mind for a future mural, members of Arts For All Inc would love to hear from you.