‘GREAT EMU IN THE SKY’
Artist: Balarinji and Tim Moriarty, with contributions from Dharug artists including Danny Eastwood, Danielle Mate, Jasmine Seymour and Leanne Watson.
Client: Balarinji, Transport for NSW
Location: M12 Motorway, Western Sydney
Engineering Design | Concept Development | 3D Modelling | Fabrication Inspection
Great Emu in the Sky is one of the largest public art sculptures in Australia, rising 30 metres above the new M12 Motorway in Western Sydney. A striking fusion of culture, storytelling, and infrastructure art, the work welcomes travellers to Western Sydney Airport and proudly declares, “You are on Dharug Country.”
Event Engineering was engaged from early 2020 to collaborate closely with Aboriginal-owned design studio Balarinji. Our role included concept design development, detailed 3D modelling, immersive walkthroughs, engineering design, and fabrication inspections—supporting the delivery of a structurally ambitious, visually iconic form that remains deeply grounded in Country.
The sculpture draws inspiration from the Dharug creation story of Marriong (the Emu and Mother Spirit), and was co-designed by Balarinji and artist Tim Moriarty. It also features contributions from Dharug artists Danny Eastwood, Jamie Eastwood, Danielle Mate, Jasmine Seymour, and Leanne Watson. Together, the team brought to life a piece that speaks to cultural presence, belonging, and connection to place.
We’re proud to have worked alongside project partners including Transport for NSW, Arcadis, Hassell Studio, and UNSW, contributing our expertise in engineering and fabrication support to a project that integrates major infrastructure with enduring cultural storytelling.
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