“Burra burawa birrung gili” (Eel above countless generations of starlight)

Cundall partnered with Darug Elder & Knowledge Holder, Uncle James Carrol and Awakabal Man, Matthew Fellingham to design “Burra burawa birrung gili” (Eel above countless generations of starlight), a unique lightart installation in response to a design competition that sought to revitalise a tired utility laneway and transform it into a distinctive attraction.  

Our lighting team designed the lightart sculpture through a deep listening exercise to the First Nations narrative of place, taking inspiration from the stories and insights of Uncle James Carrol, and Awakabal Man, Matthew Fellingham. The installation aims to bring to life the relationship between the burra (eel) and the landscape, river, peoples, history, culture and spirit of the area. The main structure is a free-flowing shape inspired by the Parramatta River and representing the mother burra (eel) with her head swimming towards the river, feeding spirit and life. Her family of burra’s float above with coloured panels that wash the surrounding buildings and pavements with shifting hues of light during the day and dynamic colour light that dances under the rippling water light at night.  

“Burra burawa birrung gil was a joyous experience of translating the deep history of place and merging it with the contemporary world. Our team carefully considered surrounding buildings to ensure light would not trespass into neighbouring hotel rooms and apartments. Our team also ensured the lighting within the installation met requirements for safety, accessibility, amenity and functionality without the need for any additional street lighting, by modelling the results of the design and ensuring it complies with relevant standards and obtrusive light requirements.” Bettin Easton, Associate