Port Melbourne holds a special place in Australia’s story of immigration. It is both a place of welcome and a place of beginnings—acknowledging the enduring connection of the First Nations people and the many migration waves that have shaped the vibrant, multicultural country we know today.
To recognise and celebrate the vital role Port Melbourne has played in shaping Australia, the Port Melbourne Business Association, with support from the City of Port Phillip and funding secured through a state government grant, commissioned two remarkable art installations. These works bring to life the story of the Port of Melbourne and highlight its enduring significance.
‘WATER JOURNEYS’ SIMONE THOMSON
The first installation is at Station Pier. Here, a striking sculpture – ‘Water Journeys’ – a traditional canoe designed by First Nations by artist Simone Thomson (Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung, Yorta Yorta) draws from this deep continuity, honouring the enduring presence of First Peoples and the cultural knowledge that continues to shape and protect these lands and waters. The work carries with it stories of Country and of welcome, recognising this place as a site of gathering — in the past, now and into the future. We pay our respects to the Ancestors and Elders, past, present and emerging, the Bunurong, Boonwurrung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples as the traditional custodians of the land and waterways and acknowledge the First Nations artists, storytellers and knowledge-holders who carry these traditions forward today. Then we move along the waterfront and come to the second installation at the Port Melbourne Yacht Club.
‘THE MIGRATION STORY WALL’
Painted by Danny Awes – 90 Degrees Art, ‘Brought to Life’ by Matthew Timson
The Migration Story Wall’ is a unique art installation showcasing mural art and state-of-the-art augmented reality, bringing stories of past migrants to life. This unique installation captures defining chapters of Port Melbourne’s immigration history through portraits of remarkable individuals and eras—from early pioneers to post-war migrants. Each portrait honours real stories of courage, resilience, and hope. Using Augmented Reality (AR) technology, these stories are brought to life, allowing visitors to hear them told in the voices of those who lived them. Explore animated portraits, from 1830s pioneers to post-WWII arrivals, and hear personal stories of journeys, struggles, and triumphs in their own words.
Josephine Liardet (1839, England)
A pioneering early settler, Josephine Liardet helped shape the Port Melbourne community with her family’s hospitality and enduring legacy.
David Mitchell (1852, Scotland)
A master builder and entrepreneur from Scotland, David Mitchell left his mark on Melbourne’s skyline with iconic structures such as the Royal Exhibition Building.
The War Years (1900–1945, Melbourne)
A journey through Melbourne’s wartime experience, from the Boer War to World War II, showcasing the community’s resilience, unity, and sacrifice during challenging times.
Abram Goldberg (1951, Poland)
A Polish-born Holocaust survivor, Abram Goldberg rebuilt his life in Melbourne, becoming a dedicated advocate for remembrance and multicultural understanding.
Ralph Todisco (1960, Italy)
Arriving from Italy in the mid-20th century, Ralph Todisco contributed to Melbourne’s rich Italian-Australian culture through community leadership and hard work.
Simply scan the QR code and watch the wall come to life!
This important project has been proudly supported by the Port Melbourne Business Association, the City of Port Phillip, the Port Melbourne Yacht Club, and a State Government grant with approval from DEECA – Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.