A landmark addition to the cultural and recreational fabric of Wodonga is open to the community, ahead of the official opening on Saturday of The Crossing Place Trail on Gateway Island.
The 5.1km loop follows the southern bank of the Murray River and features sculptural works from local Aboriginal artists, Michael Bogie, Patricia Cerminara, Treahna Hamm and Tamara Murray.
Their works tell ancient cultural stories of the river and its creatures.
The shared pathway has been built near the original crossing places of the Murray River – at the junctions of the Murray River and Bungambrawatha Creek and the Murray River and Oddies Creek.
These sites were traditional crossing places of the Murray River until the construction of a punt in 1848.
Winding its way through a beautiful riverside setting, The Crossing Place Trail tells the story of Yarre the Mailman, and has evidence of a scar tree and information about the importance of the billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
It will complement a network of trails across Albury Wodonga, becoming a key destination for locals and visitors to enjoy the magic of the Murray River in a natural riverland setting.
Wodonga Mayor Kev Poulton said the trail would become a jewel in the Gateway Island crown.
“This is not only a great attraction for locals and visitors, it’s also a celebration of some of our land’s most ancient and important stories, giving trail users a special opportunity to learn about Aboriginal culture in a beautiful natural environment,” he said.
The official opening of the trail will be held at 10am on Saturday July 9, at the trail, off Lemke Rd.
It’s part of the Border’s NAIDOC – Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! 2022 program, focusing on celebrating the history, culture and achievements of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The trail project is funded by the Australian Government through the Albury-Wodonga Regional Deal, the Victorian Government through the Regional Infrastructure Fund, and Wodonga Council.
