Invitation to connect

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is upgrading a number of stations as part of the Transport Access Program (TAP) to increase access to station for everyone.

Artefact developed heritage interpretation elements for many of the stations, including Banksia, Blackheath, Roseville, Stanmore and Waitara stations, both in relation to the Aboriginal cultural heritage of the areas and the built heritage of each station.

Image: Designs by Tubba-Gah artist Merindah Funnell on fencing at the main entrance to Waitara station. Photo courtesy of Gartner Rose. 

OUR
SOLUTION

Artefact was engaged by Gartner Rose to develop a site-specific Heritage Interpretation Plan for Waitara Station, and to design interpretive media to showcase the history of the station and the Aboriginal cultural significance of the surrounding area. Waitara Station, which is on Darug and GuriNgai Country, opened in 1895 as the last station on the North Shore Line.

We worked with a small number of locally connected artists to produce concept designs for integration within the new fencing and screens at the station. The project team chose the concept designs by Tubba-Gah artist Merindah Funnell.

The designs, entitled ‘Invitation to Connect’, focus on the terrain and waterways of the area and the beautiful bottlebrush, kangaroo grass and Sydney blue gum, all important parts of the local ecosystem. The designs are threaded together by symbols of connection and travel. The artwork was produced as bespoke coloured metal shapes fixed to the fencing on the main station entrance at Alexandra Parade and on the mesh screens on the station.

Artefact also developed a series of interpretive panels, installed within the station’s new subway and on the platform, which explore the history of the station and the suburb of Waitara.

“Artefact were a pleasure to work with on this project. They approached their work with a professional and positive manner and were always happy to provide extra guidance along the way. The outcome of the work was of high quality and has resulted in a fantastic and colourful outcome for the commuters using Waitara Station.”

Neil Henry,
Project Manager -
Gartner Rose

SUCCESS

The upgraded station opened in February 2024 with the eye-catching artworks and informative panels providing the many tens of thousands of users of Waitara station with a glimpse into the station’s history and deep time connections to Country.

Download project sheet

Image: An interpretive panel in the station’s new subway exploring the history of the station and the suburb of Waitara. Photo courtesy of Gartner Rose. 



LOCATION

Newcastle Office
Unit 71, 8 Spit Island Close, MAYFIELD WEST NSW 2304

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