On Tuesday, 26 June 2007 a traditional Aboriginal smoking ceremony and a groundbreaking were held at QVWC to mark the beginning of construction of the Shilling Wall and Gardens.

Aboriginal elder Joy Wandin Murphy led the traditional smoking ceremony. Photo: Tara Moore, Moore Photography.

A small crowd gathered on the steps of the Centre to celebrate the groundbreaking for the Shilling Wall and Gardens. Photo: Tara Moore, Moore Photography.

An intimate crowd of 40 huddled together on the steps of the Centre as the solemn smoking ceremony was led by Aboriginal elder Joy Wandin Murphy. Aunty Joy then joined QVWC Trust Chair Catherine Brown and Director of the Office of Women's Policy Fiona Sharkie to ceremoniously turn the first sod for what will become a tribute to the inspirational women of Victoria.

The Shilling Wall and Gardens will create a green, quiet space, and will run along the southern and western perimetres of the Centre. The construction, led by 2Construct, who were awarded the contract on the day, will commence on 11 July with completion expected by end of September.

Joy Wandin Murphy, Fiona Sharkie and Catherine Brown (left to right) turn the sod for the Shilling Wall and Gardens. Photo: Tara Moore, Moore Photography.

The Shilling Wall offers an opportunity to commemorate those women who you love and admire and who have inspired you. If you would like to make a lasting tribute to an incredible woman in your life, please contact the Centre. Tributes are made by making a donation of $150 or more to the QVWC Shilling Fund, which supports QVWC's work to break down barriers and promote women's wellbeing.

Find out more about the Shilling Fund.

Download the Shilling Fund brochure (PDF) 733.58 kB.

Read about the Shilling Fund in The Age or download the Shilling Wall article in The Age 25 June 2007 (PDF) 70.47 kB.

Details regarding nominations for the Shilling Wall can be obtained by contacting QVWC.