Vignette 99: Kaurna Learning Circle

For over 60,000 years people have met by the banks of the Karrawirra Pari, otherwise known as the River Torrens, to learn, collaborate and innovate. We have built the Kaurna Learning Circle here to acknowledge and encourage an understanding of the Traditional Custodians on Country where the University resides. 

The Kaurna Learning Circle is a beautiful meeting place for cultural exchanges and knowledge sharing. A welcome to the circle is written in the earthy brick paving ‘Marni naa pudni tirka kurruru-ana’ or, ‘good you all come to the learning circle’. There is a corten steel fire pit for ceremonial use, decorated with Karrawirra Pari engravings. A steel structure inspired by the water and driftwood in the river provides partial shade, with stone seating for Elders and senior representatives at events. A Welcome to Country is inscribed in the steel shelter: ‘Kaurna miyruna wangkanthi marni naa pudni, Kaurna yarta-ana’ Kaurna people say, ‘good you all come to Kaurna country’.

We are honoured to share this space with First Nations peoples.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Providing a place. p.137