About the Artist – Melanie Gordon
Melanie is a Wangerriburra tubbah gah Wiradjuri Woman and First Nations Artist. Melanie lives and creates on the border of Tambourine Mountain and the Kombumerri region and has spent many years living and painting on Kombumerri land. Her ancestor’s country neighbourhood the Kombumerri and Mununjali people. Her dad, Tony Gordon is an elder of the neighbouring region Wangerriburra. Melanie and her dad often paint murals together, as per the Kombumerri elder’s request. Her ongoing connection to this land is one of deep respect and gratitude. Melanie emphasises that living, working, and raising her family in this region has strengthened her understanding of the cultural and environmental significance of the Gold Coast; from its waterways and mountain ranges to its cultural meeting places. She has done many murals and public artworks for the Kombumerri community as well as the wider Gold Coast region.
“Although my ancestral roots are with the Wangerriburra people of the Scenic Rim, I have lived on Kombumerri Country on the Gold Coast for over 21 years. During this time, I have built strong relationships with local community members, Elders, and cultural practitioners who continue to share their knowledge and guidance. Through my practice, I strive to honour the Kombumerri people as the Traditional Custodians of this Country, acknowledging their enduring connection to land, sea and community. This connections underpins the integrity and authenticity of my work, particularly when creating pieces that speak to the broader story of Connection to Country”.
Symbolic motifs representing cultural and local significance
Each of these elements is represented within the original painting and can be thoughtfully extracted and applied to one nominated wall within each block, positioned at key visual arrival points throughout the village.
Walking through the village, you will experience a connected journey which maintains a clear relationship with the original artwork in the Study and Collaboration Hub on the ground floor of the tower.
Exploring the village artwork
The full artwork is located in the Study and Collaboration Hub on the ground floor of Kombumerri – Block 4.
Kombumerri – Block 4 - Connection with Country artwork
Throughout the village, you will see select motifs on these buildings.
The full artwork is located in the Study and Collaboration Hub on the ground floor of Kombumerri – Block 4.
Kamarun – Block 5 – Gathering Place
Organic forms unfold, representing natural contours of land, ancient rock formations, and ever-changing terrain that shapes and defines Country. Gathering places are situated on the shoreline where Eugaries (pipi shells) were harvested and represent where families came together, stories were shared, and knowledge was passed on.
Bullumm – Block 6 – Sacred Waterholes
Four permanent waterholes anchor the Mother Mountain’s presence: Cedar Creek Falls, Cameron Falls, Witches Falls and Curtis Falls. These sacred sites have sustained life, nourished Country, and provided places of gathering, reflection and healing for generations.
Keendahn – Block 7 – Mother Mountain and Yam Country
Red ochre tones, line work and dot patterns represent the cliffs and fertile yam country of Wangerriburra Country, particularly the sacred landscapes of Mount Tamborine. Known to Melanie as Waijung Tugai, the Mother Mountain is a place of healing, renewal, strength and knowledge.
Warrun – Block 8 – Kabul: Ancestral Carpet Python
Kabul, the ancestral Carpet Python creation spirit, curves gracefully through the landscape, connecting each story. Kabul’s presence reminds us that creation, movement and transformation are woven through every part of Country, linking land, water, people and ancestral knowledge.
Migunberri – Block 9 – Medicinal Plants
Green leaves represent the medicinal plants and healing properties of the Mother Mountain, known to Melanie as Waijung Tugai. This element speaks to the deep understanding Aboriginal people hold of Country as healer, teacher and provider.
