Artist: Lance Chad  
Materials: Cast iron/steel 

Wirin stands tall at the heart of Yagan Square—a landmark, a wayfinder and a spiritual presence. Taking its name from the Noongar word for spirit, Wirin represents the enduring creative force that connects all life on Boodja (Mother Earth).

Its strong, elongated form emerges from the land, symbolising the unbroken connection between people, culture and Country. With a spear in one hand and a mirra (spear thrower) in the other, Wirin grounds itself in the earth, reflecting the unity of spirit and strength.

Facing north, it watches the sun’s path, standing as a guardian over the square and the city beyond. Created by Tjyllyungoo (Lance Chadd), in collaboration with Trish Robinson and Stuart Green (Big Spoon Art Service), Wirin is a powerful expression of Noongar cultural knowledge, resilience and the deep ties between people and place.
 
"His powerful presence will offer the public audience an interactive visual, visceral experience of these inseparable, inherent cultural values which represent the ancient Cultural law and reciprocal relationship of nature worshiping. These are the cultural values within cultural Law that our 38 year old Whadjuk Noongar warrior ‘Yagan’ and his father ‘Midgegooroo’ fought so fearlessly to protect during the Swan River Colony in 1833. Our traditional custodians accumulated cultural knowledge and responsibilities, passed down over thousands of years, on particular specific care for country that in turn, provides and cares for all life. This design signifies our people’s longevity in the spirit of our Culture." Tjyllyungoo - Lance Chadd