Wind Messenger is a public artwork by Carla Gottgens, created as part of the Lyrics, Landscapes and Lintels Public Art Trail in Leeton Shire. Inspired by the nearby Fivebough Wetlands, the installation celebrates the endangered Australasian Bittern and its significance within Wiradjuri culture, where the bird is regarded as a messenger travelling upon the wind. The artwork incorporates stylised representations of native wetland plants and reflects the rich environmental and cultural heritage of the region.
Stories Carried on the Wind
Wind Messenger was commissioned alongside Charred Memories and Leeton Lanterns as part of Leeton Shire’s Lyrics, Landscapes and Lintels public art program. Installed in Rotary Park, opposite the Leeton Visitor Information Centre, the work pays tribute to the internationally significant Fivebough Wetlands and the enduring connection of the Wiradjuri people to Country. The design was developed in consultation with local Aboriginal community representatives and references the spirit Wawe, “one who travels on the wind”, through the symbolic image of the Australasian Bittern. Decorative elements throughout the panels depict native wetland species found within the Ramsar-listed ecosystem.
Keeping the Message Alive
To preserve the vibrant colours and intricate details of Wind Messenger in Leeton’s outdoor environment, the artwork was finished with A&I Coatings’ VITREFLON® 700 fluoropolymer topcoat. Renowned for its exceptional UV resistance, colour stability and long-term weathering performance, V700 was the ideal choice for a public artwork designed to remain a lasting feature of the landscape. By helping prevent fading, gloss loss and premature deterioration, the coating ensures the artwork continues to tell its cultural and environmental story for years to come while minimising ongoing maintenance requirements.
Project Details
Artist: Carla Gottgens
Project: Lyrics, Landscapes and Lintels Public Art Trail
Location: Rotary Park, Leeton NSW
Year: 2018
