A Journey Through Country
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Travelling along the M7 Motorway, striking art installations emerge from the landscape. Large, distinguished sculptures, a towering artwork soaring skywards, and an infantry of bronze horses that are impossible to miss. What you discover are First Nations artworks sharing deeply embedded stories, inviting you to learn, reflect and connect with local Dharug culture. On the traditional lands of the Dharug people, join WEST for a journey discovering the significance behind these remarkable installations, and the experiences intertwined nearby.
Most people know the M7 Motorway as a connector, linking the M5, M4 and M2 Motorways. But woven into this 40km journey across Dharug Country is a collection of powerful First Nations artworks sharing stories of interconnection, courage, belonging and Country.
M7 Motorway - Image supplied by Balarinji 
Maria Lock - Image supplied by Balarinji 
The Bayala Guwiyang Installation - Image supplied by Balarinji
Commissioned by North Western Roads Group and curated and co-created by Balarinji with First Nations artists Corina Wayali Norman, Jamie Eastwood and Jasmine Seymour, the twelve public artworks reflect stories of the Frontier Wars, the shared service of Indigenous and non-Indigenous soldiers and the connection to Dharug Country. Drawing on the knowledge of local Elders, language holders, military veterans and Dharug-connected artists, the collection is guided by the theme ‘to protect Country is to belong.’
Starting your day at the Prestons entry to the M7 Motorway, nearby Edmondson Park or Casula are great places to pick up coffee and snacks before hitting the road. Once on the motorway, it won’t be long before you spot three commanding warrior figures surrounded by metallic shields and spears. The artwork represents the Frontier Warriors, honouring the legacy of those who defended their Country with courage and commitment. At night, headlights bring their ceremonial body paint to life.
As you approach Elizabeth Hills, two large bronze statues emerge. The artwork honours Dharug matriarch Maria Lock who broke barriers in education and in pursuing Aboriginal rights, and her husband, convict carpenter Robert Lock. The sculpture holds added significance, co-created by Dharug artist Jasmine Seymour, a descendant of Maria Lock.
Maria Lock - Image supplied by Balarinji 
M7 Public Art Collection 
Frontier Warriors - Image supplied by Balarinji
A little further along, black, white and orange poles decorated with Gymea Lily patterns gather like figures around a campfire. The Bayala Guwiyang installation symbolises hope and reconciliation, representing the bonds formed between Indigenous and non-Indigenous servicemen on the battlefield.
Soon after, Gili, a towering 50-metre sculpture, appears. Inspired by the Gymea Lily, a symbol of fire on Dharug Country, it represents the diverse cultural groups in Western Sydney living in unity under one sun. Meaning light in Dharug language, Gili glows at night in the colours of the Dharug six seasons.
The Bayala Guwiyang Installation - Image supplied by Balarinji 
Gili - Image supplied by Balarinji 
The Bayala Guwiyang Installation - Image supplied by Balarinji
Before continuing, take a nearby detour for lunch. Exiting at The Horsley Drive, a short drive takes you to Goliath Coffee Roasters, roasting the tastiest coffee you might ever taste. Soak up the friendly brew bar atmosphere, then follow WEST’s recommendations for lunch, dessert and things to do on The Horsley Drive, including a visit to Smithfield and the Western Sydney Parklands. Perfect for extending your day of discovery.
Goliath Coffee Roasters, The Horsley Drive 
Goliath Coffee Roasters, The Horsley Drive 
Goliath Coffee Roasters, The Horsley Drive
Back on the M7, big, bold black and white text soon appears on your left. The words are the last verse from the 1960 poem ‘Son of Mine’ by Oodgeroo Noonuccal (also known as Kath Walker), one of Australia’s finest poets; “But I’ll tell instead of brave and fine, when lives of black and white entwine, and men in brotherhood combine, this I would tell, you son of mine”.
Approaching the M4 interchange, large bronze horses and stainless steel emu plumes are a powerful sight. The Light Horse Interchange shares the story of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander soldiers’ horsemanship on the battlefields, the emu plumes noting the significance of the emu to Aboriginal ceremony and Country. The additional public art collection can be viewed on the M7 shared path, a great reason to hop on a bike or take to the pavement for another day of exploring and immersion in Dharug culture.
'Son of Mine' Installation - Image supplied by Balarinji 
The Light Horse Interchange - Image supplied by Balarinji 
The Light Horse Interchange Emu Plumes - Image supplied by Balarinji
As the M7 continues through Eastern Creek and Rooty Hill, visiting WEST HQ and the Coliseum Theatre make for a superb stopover. WEST HQ is a hub of activity, filled with excellent restaurants and entertainment options. Every time WEST visits, it’s packed with locals and filled with a vibrant atmosphere, this is the place to be.
CHU Restaurant by China Doll’s sizzling black beef, XO prawns or steamed whole fish are flavour favourites, and for steak specialists, you can’t go past Steak & Oyster Co. by Sean Connolly. Take a peek through the butcher’s shop window and watch your steak come to life on the grill. There’s plenty of other eateries to choose from, you’re sure to find something you love.
Steak & Co. by Sean Connolly, WEST HQ 
Harriett's Chicken, WEST HQ 
CHU Restaurant by China Doll, WEST HQ
Next door at Coliseum Theatre, this world-class live entertainment venue is a wonderful way to spend the evening. From musicals to big name international artists, family programs, comedy, dance, special events and more, this is THE place to be entertained. Set within stunning interiors, a visit to the Coliseum Theatre will feel like a special night out.
Coliseum Theatre, Rooty Hill 
Coliseum Theatre, Rooty Hill 
Coliseum Theatre, Rooty Hill
Thanks to the M7 Motorway, all of these experiences are at your doorstep. You can also experience the First Nations Public Art Collection from the direction of Baulkham Hills. For a full day of exploring, Bella Vista, Glenwood, Marsden Park, and The Great West Walk all offer added adventures. Intertwined with the powerful M7 Public Art Collection, curated and co-created by Balarinji, and Dharug-connected First Nations artists Corina Wayali Norman, Jamie Eastwood and Jasmine Seymour, it’s a reminder of the incredible culture, stories and experiences waiting to be discovered in our outer suburbs. Hidden among quiet neighbourhoods, suburban streets and places we pass every day. Ready for you to discover.
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