Aboriginal Artwork Project

In 2020, Aqwest embarked on a project to find a Noongar name for a newly built Water Treatment Plant at Glen Iris in Bunbury.

After extensive research and meaningful consultation with local Noongar Elders, the name Ngoora Moolinap was chosen. Translated from the Noongar language, the name means 'water sitting in a well, swamp place of', reflecting the deep cultural and environmental significance of water in the region.

Through this naming project, Aqwest identified an opportunity to create a space where local schools and community groups could learn about water, sustainability and cultural connections to water.

This vision aimed to strengthen understanding of how water is valued and cared for within Noongar culture. To bring this idea to life, Aqwest engaged with local Elders and community members. These discussions explored concepts and themes that could link Aqwest’s core business—providing safe, reliable drinking water—with Aboriginal stories and perspectives on water.

From these conversations, the idea of an artwork project themed around the Six Noongar Seasons emerged. This theme offered a unique way to connect water to Country, culture, and community through art.

Water Through the Noongar Seasons

In 2023, Aqwest partnered again with local Elders and community members to develop the Water Through the Noongar Seasons artwork project. This project celebrates the stories, knowledge and cultural connections to water embedded in the six Noongar seasons - Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba and Kambarang.

Local artists Delphine Schwarze, Georgina Webb, Melissa Riley, Jodie Riley, Dawn Alone, Erica Dimer, Glen Garlett and Carlene Thorne produced artworks relating to the six Noongar seasons.

The artwork will soon be installed on the external fencing at the Skewes Water Treatment Plant, located at Brockman Park, Bunbury.

This initiative celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Noongar people and reflects our commitment to sharing custodianship of our precious water resource. Aqwest looks forward to sharing this significant addition with the community with an official unveiling in 2026.

Aqwest kaadadjiny nidja Wardandi moorta

Noongar boodja-k wer kalyakoorl baalabiny

boodja-k, kepa wer moorta. Ngalak kaadjadjiny

ngaalang Birdiya koora-koora, yeyi wer mila.