Wangu Poles

Description:

At the northern edge of the University of Adelaide's North Terrace Campus and formerly covered by bitumen and used for car parking, was redeveloped in 2020 as a space for events, cultural exchange, and education. This area acknowledges the Kaurna Aboriginal people and their historical connections to the Adelaide CBD (Tartanyangga - Place of the Red Kangaroo).

The Wangu (Seven) Poles Artwork, designed by mantirridesign, is included in the Kaurna Learning Circle, which has received multiple awards. The installation incorporates elements representing the relationship between the Kaurna people, Wardlipari (the Milky Way), and Karrawirra pari (River Torrens). It also reflects aspects of traditional ritual knowledge associated with Kaurna Ancestors’ life along the river. This iconic landmark located at the northern entrance to campus is visible during both day and night from the northern bank of the river, walking across the University Footbridge and when coming from the top of the University's Elsie Cornish stairs from North Terrace.