Vignette 110: Murlapaka

At each University campus is a Murlapaka shield, acknowledging the Kaurna people as Traditional Custodians of the Adelaide Plains, the land on which our campuses are built.

Shields are significant personal items in Kaurna culture, powerful symbols of identity and protection. The shape and markings on the Murlapaka identify it as belonging to Kaurna people and culture. These shields were traditionally cut from the outer bark of mature River Red Gum trees or carved from their dense timber.

Our three shields were designed and made by Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri artist Paul Herzich. They reflect the University’s commitment to recognise and to celebrate Kaurna people, culture and Country.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Providing a place. p.151