Downie Street

The site of Downie Street in Melbourne’s CBD has a rich history. Being so close to the Yarra River, the land would have been an important place for the traditional custodians of the land, the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeru Woi Wurring of the Eastern Kulin Nation. From 1835 the site was a part of John Batman’s Garden, being in close proximity to his residence. The activity area of 9-27 Downie Street was first purchased in 1840. In 1842 Melbourne’s first Foundry and Shipbuilder was established. Since then the businesses have included The Oriental Tea Co, The West End Stables and the West End Brewery.

Large scale historical excavation of the site was undertaken over the summer of 2018/19. Over 15,000 artefacts were uncovered including Aboriginal carving tools, glass and ceramic bottles, porcelain plates, mugs and myriad metal objects relating to foundry work such as crucibles, files and nails dating from the 1850s onwards. In addition, a large abundance of bone, including animal burials and smaller items such as buttons, coins and clay pipes were recovered.

Damian Cazaly was invited to create a large scale piece of Art on the existing Substation that reflected the important history of the site as well as conveying the importance of the artefacts unearthed.