River Whispers is a free self-guided twenty-five minute audio experience best enjoyed in the surrounds of Werribee River.
Through the voices of the custodians of the river, residents and local artists we hear of the provenance of Werribee River and the important place it holds in our local community.
Created by sound artist Patrick Cronin, River Whispers weaves interviews, environmental recordings and music into a rich tapestry of peoples’ stories, music and the mesmerising sounds of this natural environment.
As you walk over the pedestrian bridge from Wedge Street Piazza into Wyndham Park, off Watton Street you’ll find a sign-posted River Whispers QR Code on the bridge pillars.
Simply scan the code using your mobile phone to listen to the audio recording (no apps required), or click play below.
All you need is your mobile phone and headphones if you have them.
Stroll along the walking paths or relax on the lawn while you immerse yourself in stories of the river, culture and community.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Wyndham City Council recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first Peoples of Australia. We acknowledge the Bunurong and Wadawurrung Peoples as Traditional Owners of the lands on which this audio work was made. The Wadawurrung and Bunurong Peoples have and always will belong to the Werribee Yalook (river), creeks, stars, hills and red clay of this Country. We pay respect to their Ancestors and Elders who always have, and always will, care for Country and community today and for future generations.
Patrick Cronin- Artist Statement
In talking to local people who care for and enjoy the Werribee River, a recurring theme emerged of a river that is full of surprises - the unexpected tranquillity of the riverbanks tucked behind busy Watton Street, the startling beauty of the K Road cliffs, the gentle respite that the river provides as it flows through rural, suburban and industrial landscapes on its course to the sea.
River Whispers has been a welcome conduit for knowledge-sharing about the ancient roots of this land and the changes wrought by colonisation and development. It also speaks to the river’s crucial role as a provider of water and livelihood, and to the absolute necessity of preserving natural waterways and environments in amongst an increasingly urbanised population.
I hope listeners enjoy these interwoven conversations from people who know and love the river.
Voices of River Whispers
The people interviewed for this project have a long association with the Werribee River. We thank these people for their consultation, time and insights.
Ramani Dorai Raj – Urban Designer for Wyndham City Council
Oriano Salvalaggio – A third generation business owner
John Forrester – Werribee River Association President and Riverkeeper
Xiang Li – visual artist
Fatima Measham – Writer and conservation volunteer
Jess Fairfax – Artist and Sustainable Project Officer for Werribee River Association
Toddlers and Parents of Werribee River Association's Generation of Gaia group
Barry James Gilson – Wadawurrung Traditional Custodian, Poet, Singer and Story Teller
Mrs Jo-anne Wembridge and Year 3 Werribee Primary School students
With thanks to
Werribee River Association
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation
Bunurong Land Council
CREDITS
Music, audio editing and sound design by Patrick Cronin, with additional materials by Sally Ford.
Songs by Barry James Gilson.
All interviews and fields recordings were recorded on or near the Werribee River.