We Walk as One

This work by locally based First Peoples artist Simone Thomson forms an important contribution to the cultural education of Preschool-aged children and families in the municipality.

Situated in the refurbished grounds to Pinemont Preschool, this work by locally based First Peoples artist Simone Thomson forms an important contribution to the cultural education of Preschool-aged children and families in the municipality.

Please note that work is only accessible to view via Hygeia Parade.

Artist statement

The traditional language group for the Wurundjeri People is ‘Woi-Wurrung’. In Woi-Wurrung language, the word Wurundjeri is broken into two parts. The first part ‘Wurun’ means the ‘manna gumtree’. The second part – ‘djeri’ means the white grub that lives in the tree. Gum leaves and witchetty grubs represent the Wurundjeri Peoples on the totem poles. This is a sign of respect for the ancestors who once walked this Country.

The preschool’s Group Totems are represented on the poles acknowledging the children who have been a part of the Pinemont Family and will continue to be – the Joeys, Koalas and Possums. Their animal tracks stretch across the totem poles telling of their significant presence on Country and at the preschool. The Rainbow Serpent features on the backs of each of the poles referencing the colour of his body spreading colour to the land and waterways and beautiful creatures. The children’s handprints signify all the colours of his long and colourful body.

The large Gathering Circle on the pathway represents the Meeting Place that is Pinemont Preschool. This is where the children and families gather to learn from their ‘Elders’ (teachers) to be prepared for their learning journey in life. Each child is represented by the large ‘U’ shapes that encircle the Meeting Place. Each child faces one another in equality – everyone treats one another with respect and kindness, this is the way of our people.

Around the Gathering Circle are five sets of handprints. These handprints represent the Pinemont Preschool ‘Elders’, the Educators, the Guardians. These special people ‘have their arms around’ the children protecting them with their life knowledge, they are guiding the children on their journey tracks to school and beyond, they will always welcome them back into their Community.

- Simone Thomson