Visit Victoria, Australian Tourism Expo
Location: Naarm
Client: Commissioned by Visit Victoria for the Australian Tourism Exchange
Artist: Simone Thomson (Wurundjeri / Yorta Yorta)
Art Consultancy, Artist Services: Sarah Weston, SW Art Consulting
Cultural Consultation: Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation
Fabrication Assistance: Baldwin Studios
Photography: Fred Kroh
Video: Aunty Zeta Thomson, Simone Thomson
Bunjil’s Nest was created to anchor Visit Victoria’s presence at the Australian Tourism Exchange 2024. Inspired by Bunjil, the creator spirit and wedge-tailed eagle for First Peoples of the Kulin Nation, the sculptural installation alongside installations inside the Expo stand as a symbolic gesture of welcome; both a point of acknowledgement and connection. Crafted through an artist led approach with First Nation artist and designer Simone Thomson, the nest forms both a sculptural centrepiece and a cultural invitation. Its form evokes protection, care and interconnection. As a contemporary expression of storytelling through form, Bunjil’s Nest holds space for visitors to pause and engage with Victoria’s deep cultural heritage — while also speaking to Victoria as a destination shaped by living traditions, creativity and meaningful experiences.Positioned at the heart of the Visit Victoria stand, the installation affirms the importance of cultural leadership and First Peoples storytelling in shaping the future of tourismAbout the Artist
Simone Thomson is a Naarm-based artist, muralist and creative, and a Woi-Wurrung Wurundjeri and Yorta-Yorta Traditional Owner through her mother. She draws inspiration for her art through her spiritual connection to Country and the rich colours and textures of the earth and sky.
