Sit down for a yarn in Mossman

Traditional hunting areas have been etched into new timber benches designed to create a yarning circle at George Davis Park in Mossman.

The Bunday yarning benches are the creative work of local Kuku Yalanji artists Andrew Gibson, Kaanju Bamboo, Kenneth Bloomfield and Zion Gibson.

The seats, which were hand-carved and etched at the woodshed of Yalanji Arts Centre at the Mossman Gorge Community, each have a theme that depict traditional hunting areas for Kuku Yalanji People; Jalunmun – from the sea, Bubumun – from the land, and Wawubujamun – from the rivers.

Bunday project artist Kenneth Bloomfield said he was delighted to display the artwork at George Davis Park.

“The four of us worked on the project together and came up with the theme and artwork as a group,” he said.

“Once we finalised the artwork, we etched our designs into the benches with a wood burning tool. It really means a lot to have our work installed here in Mossman.”

The yarning circle arrangement of the timber benches has played an important role in Indigenous culture for centuries in learning, sharing, and building relationships and preserving and passing on cultural knowledge.

The artwork was commissioned by Douglas Shire Council in March 2021.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said public artwork was a perfect vehicle for highlighting and showcasing local indigenous culture.

“The Bunday Project celebrates our Indigenous Culture in a special, meaningful and functional way,” he said.

“The benches have been beautifully crafted and designed. A lot of care and talent has gone into the project and we thank Andrew, Kaanju, Kenneth and Zion for their wonderful contribution to the Mossman community.”