Melbourne unveils statues to honour Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter

By PETER ROWE

The musical, political and cultural legacy of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter was honoured with a new sculptures unveiled in Fitzroy’s Atherton Gardens in Melbourne on Saturday.

Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins joined members of Archie and Ruby’s family, along with representatives from the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and Yarra City Council, to officially launch the statues.

The bronze statues, created by Melbourne artist Darien Pullen, are set in a newly landscaped space, designed by Melbourne-based architect Jefa Greenaway and landscape architect Paul Herzich, that pays tribute to the couple’s connection with the area, its rich Aboriginal history and significance to the Stolen Generations.

“Atherton Gardens will always be a place for me and my family,” Aunty Myrtle Roach said.

“Fond and treasured memories of a bygone era for the ole parkies like myself. It’s only fitting my brother’s statue and dear Ruby find its permanent place there for all my people and the community to share.

“We as a family feel both a sense of sadness and excitement as we celebrate two legends and so much-loved members of the Roach and Hunter family.”

An accessible path leading to the site from Gertrude Street is etched with the footprints of Archie and Ruby’s totem animals, including the pelican, black swan, wedge-tailed eagle and red-bellied black snake.

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and Yarra City Council worked closely with members of the Roach and Hunter families on the project, with funding from the Labor Government through the Creative Industries portfolio.

The statues honour Archie and Ruby’s impact on Australian music, their contribution to Indigenous rights, and the mark they made on the country’s broader political, social and cultural landscape and the lives of many people.

Archie was posthumously appointed a companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for his services to the performing arts, to Indigenous rights and for supporting First Peoples artists. His song, Took the Children Away, became an anthem for the Stolen Generations.

“We are incredibly proud to have been involved in the development and installation of this beautiful memorial to two legendary First Nations Music Icons and advocates,” the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation said in a statement.

Minister Hutchins said Archie and Ruby were legendary musicians and leaders in the Aboriginal community.

“This stunning public artwork is a wonderful tribute to their achievements,” she said.