Released 25/07/2017
Minister for Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman today officially unveiled commemorative artwork in Violet’s Park to commemorate the life of Ngunnawal Elder Violet Bulger, as part of the Canberra and region Heritage Festival.
“I am pleased to officially launch the commemorative artwork titled ‘Meeting Place’, which recognises the life of Ngunnawal elder Violet Bulger and her contribution to our community,” Minister Gentleman said.
“Violet was a highly respected elder who represented her community for several decades. Born in 1899 at the Aboriginal Station of Brungle in New South Wales, Violet grew up as a member of the Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal community.
“Unfortunately, she was one of the first Aboriginal children to be forcibly removed from her family by missionaries in 1909 and was denied the right to visit her family until she was 21 years of age. She returned to the community and married in 1925.
“Violet learned midwifery from her mother and worked throughout her adult life to assist pregnant women on Aboriginal reserves. Throughout her life Violet remained a vibrant and positive woman supporting her family and community.
“At the time of her death in 1993, Violet was survived by her five children, 56 grandchildren, 196 great-grandchildren and 50 great-great-grandchildren.
“This project was undertaken by the Tuggeranong Arts Centre, which worked closely with sculptor Tony Steel and emerging Aboriginal artist Brett Carpenter, as a result of successfully receiving an ACT Heritage grant.
“I encourage the local community to visit Violet’s Park which is located in Ngunnawal off Marungul Avenue to learn about Violet’s extraordinary life and appreciate all she did for this community and her legacy.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all involved in the process,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases