Yapang Bila Yapun. Yapun - Wauchope River Walking Track.Yapang Bila Yapun.yapun is the Birpai name given to the Wauchope Bicentenary Riverside Sculptural Trail, set on the Hastings River, winding its way along Rocks Ferry Road and Reserve.Where possible, the artists who created the installations on this riverside sculptural trail, did so with the respect and involvement of the traditional owners, the Birpai people.The project was funded with a $196,140 grant from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.The Trail encompasses four art installations that were inspired by cultural, environmental and historical aspects of the Wauchope region.The Trail presents a unique opportunity to tell community stories in a creative, respectful manner, resulting in a legacy to the Wauchope community.A Reference Group of local stakeholders informed project delivery and included representatives of : *       The Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council, *       Wauchope Chamber of Commerce, *       Wauchope District Historical Society, a Wauchope creative community member with experience in Public/Sculptural Art, *       Hastings Co-op, and *       Council staff.Council received an overwhelming number of responses from local and interstate artists through a formal Expression of Interest process. The Project Reference Group reviewed the submissions against pre-determined selection criteria, through this process, the artwork for each site was selected.Public art can stimulate thinking, deepen sense of place and transform how we engage with spaces. Public art offers broad community benefit as a platform for civic engagement. It is the most democratic of art forms given its availability to all as a conduit and focus for public spaces. It may engage residents and visitors in conversations – from understanding historical and cultural backgrounds, to driving attachment to place and social cohesion. It tells stories about who we are and where we live. It sends messages to both local people and visitors that we care about this place - our place. This project, like much of the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, was severely affected by the flood events of March 2021. Two of the original project installations were destroyed, information on these works are included in this audio guide.AcknowledgementsPort Macquarie Hastings Council respectfully acknowledge the Birpai people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live. Council commits to building positive relationships, respect and opportunities with our local Aboriginal community. Production and Photography: Michael Eddie, Krissa Wilkinson Narration: Rachel Jacket