The Bendigo Law Court precinct continues to take shape with the installation of a striking Aboriginal artwork - a wedge tailed eagle Bunjil, in recognition of the cultural history of the Dja Dja Wurrung people.
The installation of the hammered-copper representation of the wedge tailed eagle by Dja Dja Wurrung, Barapa Barapa and Boon Wurrung artist Racquel Kerr has been completed and soars four stories high over the corner facade of Hargreaves and Mundy Streets.
Bunjil is one of several design elements that acknowledge the land and water connection the Dja Dja Wurrung people continue to maintain with Country. The precinct's landscaping will feature elements to symbolise a smoking ceremony and the distinctive granite outcrops, water features, and native flora.
The Andrews Labor Government is investing in the modern court facilites that Bendigo needs, with the Victorian Budget 2019/22 investing $152.4 million for the precinct's development.
The new Law Court precinct will feature 11 courtrooms including two hearing rooms, and two mediation suites to service the Magistrates' Court, Children's Court and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal along with the Supreme Court, County Court and Federal Circuit Court on a circuit basis.
The building will include access to secure entrances, separate court sections and safe waiting areas. There will also be remote hearing facilities across the cout precinct to allow people to appear digitally.
It will be able to hear specialist justice matters through a Koori Court and Specialist Family Violence suite and will contribute to the revitalisation of Bendigo's city precinct along with the Bendigo GovHub and Bendigo TAFE developments.
Built over five levels, the design has been developed in consultation with the City of Greater Bendigo, legal practitioners, court users and local community service agencies, and shaped through a strong partnership between the Dja Dja Wurrung and Court Services Victoria.
Bendigo's future court is scheduled to open early next year and will deliver accessible and responsive justice to Bendigo and the wider Loddon Mallee region.
As stated by Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes
"Victorians should have the best possible access to justice no matter where they live - this new precinct will be safer and more inclusive while creating hundreds of local jobs."
As stated by Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
"We've worked closely with Traditional Owners to ensure the design of the precinct fits the needs of the community, celebrates the proud culture of the Dja Dja Wurrung and is a uniquely-Bendigo design."
As stated by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
"Thank you to artist Racquel Kerr for her striking depiction of Bunjil, which will welcome all those who use this fantastic court precinct."
