BIYAL is a celebration of the Guildford Biyal (Red gum), known locally as the Guildford Big Tree. The exhibition is a part of DJAARA’s Guildford Biyal Project.

The Biyal is deeply significant to Dja Dja Wurrung People. It predates colonisation, its grafted branch signifying it as a marker tree.

In February 2024, the Biyal dropped a significant limb. This was a pivotal event for Dja Dja Wurrung People and the broader community.

The DJAARA Malamiya (Cultural Heritage) and Galk-galk Dhelkunya (to heal/to care for, many trees) teams ensured timber was protected and transported to a safe location – allowing time for Dja Dja Wurrung People to determine the next steps.

In the days following the limb drop, many came to spend time with the tree – and the community's connection to the Biyal has shaped and sustained this project.

Since then, Uncle Rick Nelson and Dja Dja Wurrung People have guided how the timber has been shared - with community, and with those commissioned to create works for BIYAL.

Working together, Uncle Rick and local craftsman Pete McCurley carved a fallen limb into a darnuk (coolamon) that is large enough to sit in. The limb came home to the Biyal as the Reconciliation Seat. That ceremony marked the beginning of publicly honouring the tree's timber, which continues through this BIYAL exhibition.

Using the salvaged timber, artists, artisans and storytellers have found inspiration in the Biyal for art, artefact and creative storytelling. BIYAL intends to honour this ancient tree and its ability to bring connection and healing to Dja Dja Wurrung People, mob living on Djandak, and the broader community.

Womindjika (welcome) to BIYAL.