Trail of Lights

The Trail of Lights exhibition represents a collaborative endeavor between internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro and the scenic landscape of Mildura, Victoria. Munro's artistic prowess lies in his ability to infuse emotive themes into his installations, seamlessly merging them with the natural beauty of the surroundings. With an impressive portfolio boasting over forty-five exhibitions across the globe, Munro has solidified his reputation as a visionary artist.

One of Munro's most celebrated works is the Field of Light in Uluru, located in the Northern Territory. This installation, which has been captivating audiences for more than eight years, is powered entirely by solar energy, creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious experience. Its success has garnered widespread international acclaim and serves as a testament to Munro's ability to engage visitors in a profound and immersive manner.

Building upon the triumph of previous installations, the Trail of Lights is poised to make a significant impact on Mildura's cultural and economic landscape. Predictions of attracting over 100,000 visitors within the first two years underscore the widespread appeal and anticipation surrounding the exhibition. Beyond its role as a cultural attraction, the Trail of Lights is expected to elevate Mildura's profile, positioning it as a desirable destination for residents, businesses, and investors alike.

The essence of the Trail of Lights lies in its ability to offer visitors a transcendent experience, allowing them to connect with both the artwork and the natural environment on a deeper level. Through the interplay of 12,500 firefly lights, Gone Fishing sculptures, and the natural landscape, Munro invites contemplation and reflection, creating a space for introspection and wonder.

An extract from Bruce Munro

Fireflies Installations, I first came up with the form of the Fireflies for a residential commission in 2008. Then the idea to develop the piece further came to me on a bike ride in 2010—I was thinking about the meandering pathway through an installation I had just made called CDSea, and I realised there was a personal connection with the spiritual river described in two of my favourite books, Kim by Rudyard Kipling and Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse.

What I wanted to make was a meandering spring/stream of light, illuminated gently. This then became the installation Arrow Spring, which was shown at Longwood Gardens in the US, inspired in part by the River Arrow in Kim. From that exhibition forward, I have used the unit form of the firefly to create larger site-specific light installations. I have found that the repetition and massing of these individual lovely, illuminated objects has been able to promote a sense of empathy and well-being to the visitor immersed among them. Very recently, I learned about an Aboriginal concept, expressed by the Cadigal people from the area that is now Sydney by the word “putuwa“- literally, to warm one’s hands over a fire and then take the hand of another person. I have incorporated this beautiful and uniquely Australian expression of compassion and love into the environment for the Mettabhavana Pavilion, as it very closely follows the structure’s core meaning of “loving-kindness.” The format of the installation is simply a maze of concentric circles (the indigenous symbol for a meeting place) populated by Fireflies. There are 12,500 Fireflies and 502 pods of 25 Fireflies at the Lock Island Installation.

The Gone Fishing installation that will be incorporated around the perimeter of Lock Island will provide a gentle humorous reminder that the said activity beautifully describes the timeless moments we all hanker for! 

British artist Bruce Munro is renowned for his captivating large-scale light installations, which are deeply influenced by his fascination with the human experience. For over three decades, Munro has maintained the practice of recording ideas and images in sketchbooks, capturing his reactions to various stimuli such as music, literature, science, and the world around him. This meticulous documentation serves as a wellspring of inspiration, reflection, and subject matter for his art.

Munro's artistic journey is characterised by a unique blend of creativity, resourcefulness, and technical expertise. With a background in light manufacturing, he possesses a keen eye for components and a penchant for inventive reuse. This combination enables him to create both monumental temporary installations and intimate narrative-driven artworks.

Among Munro's most renowned works are immersive light installations found across the globe, including:

• Field of Light in Manhattan, New York, USA
• Field of Light in Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia
• Mountain Lights in Hokkaido, Japan
• Fireflies in Bradford on Avon, UK
• Light at Sensorio in Paso Robles, California, USA

Each of these installations serves as a testament to Munro's unparalleled ability to transform spaces, evoke emotions, and inspire wonder through the medium of light.

Find out more https://www.brucemunro.co.uk/

Lock Island has been selected as the site for Bruce Munro's highly anticipated Trail of Lights installation, strategically chosen for its prime location near Mildura's riverfront, central business district, arts precinct, and medical services. This central location maximises the accessibility of the installation for both locals and visitors, providing easy access via existing walking tracks and parking infrastructure.

The decision to host the installation on Lock Island also leverages the region's visitation by air, as well as its proximity to accommodation and hospitality options. By situating the Trail of Lights in such a central and accessible location, organisers aim to ensure that all members of the community, as well as tourists, can fully immerse themselves into Munro's captivating artwork and enjoy the experience to its utmost potential.

Mildura Weir and Lock 11, located on the Murray River in north-western Victoria, are notable structures with a rich history and unique features in Australia's water management infrastructure. Construction of Mildura Weir and Lock 11 began in August 1923 and was completed in 1927. This project aimed to enhance navigability along the Murray River and provide stable pools for irrigation development.

Mildura Weir is a trestle weir, the only one of its kind in Australia following the upgrade of the Torrumbarry Weir. It consists of 24 steel trestles, each weighing approximately 11 tonnes. These trestles can be winched up from the river to facilitate maintenance or allow the safe passage of floodwaters. Lock 11, adjacent to the weir, is a concrete chamber measuring 61.5 m long, 17.1 m wide, and 7.6 m deep. It includes four steel lock gates, each 9.4 m long and 6.9 m high, weighing 18 tonnes. The lock chamber can accommodate around 4.5 million litres of water (4.5ML). The lock operates by filling and draining water through butterfly valves and hydraulic cylinders, maintaining a stable water level for navigation purposes.

Historically, the first paddle steamer navigated through Lock 11 on 2 August 1927, marking a significant milestone in the river's transportation history. Mildura Weir plays a crucial role in diverting water to Lower Murray Water's Mildura and Red Cliffs districts, as well as private diversion customers. This infrastructure contributes to stable water supplies for irrigation and improved water quality in the Mildura region by preventing excessive groundwater percolation.

Mildura Weir and Lock 11 are unique in that they are separated by an island, a distinctive feature along the Murray River. This island spans 15 hectares of bushland, providing a habitat for native wildlife and attracting tourists interested in both the natural environment and the engineering marvels of the area. Additionally, Lock 11 stands out as the only lock on the Murray River where the public is permitted to walk across, offering visitors a firsthand experience of this historically and environmentally significant site.

For further information www.g-mwater.com.au

The realisation of this remarkable experience is made possible through the generous support from the State Government playing a vital role in bringing this immersive and captivating experience to life, enriching the cultural landscape, and fostering tourism and development in the region.

• Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions - Regional Tourism Infrastructure Projects (RTIP) $3 million 

We are grateful for the collaboration and assistance of the following organisations:

• Murray Darling Basin Association
• Goulburn Murray Water
• Mallee Catchment Management Authority
• First People of the Millewa Mallee

Their involvement is integral to ensuring the success and sustainability of the project, as we work together to enhance the region's tourism, cultural and environmental landscape.

The anticipated opening for this transformative experience is set for April 2025. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable journey through light and wonder!

We are looking for community groups and/or individuals who are interested in supporting and participating in project development and delivery.

This is a great opportunity for sporting clubs, volunteer groups, school groups and interested individuals to provide in-kind support to the project in the lead up to the opening as part of final delivery.

Interested parties are invited to express their interest by emailing lights@mildura.vic.gov.au

Be part of the magic - Register your interest to become a partner

A fantastic opportunity to be a part of enhancing our region's tourism offerings awaits.

We are looking to partner with businesses who can join us in elevating visitor experience and creating unforgettable memories.

Become a partner

Will the exhibition cause any light pollution that will impact nearby residents?

The Trail of Lights installation is made up of fibre optic lighting that will project a low level of light toward the ground via an LED light. The light display will not have a significant impact in terms of light pollution and will only be turned on during operational hours.

Will operations and patrons create noise issues for residents?

Trail of Lights is designed to be a contemplative, quiet experience. At times there may be activations at the Lock that include live music. All events/activations will be in line with EPA requirements and will not impact residents in the area.

Will there be an increase in cars parking around my property?

The Lock Island site has great connectivity through walking tracks from the riverfront to the CBD where a significant percentage of Mildura’s accommodation and hospitality venues are located. The accessible walking tracks will see many visitors to the installation visit by foot. For visitors attending by car, the existing two car parks located along the Riverfront, plus overflow parking at already established car parks close to the Mildura Art Centre will provide sufficient parking for the anticipated number of attendees per session.

How will the installation operate?

Operating days and times will vary depending on season and demand.  

How long will the installation be on Lock Island?

The installation will be in place at the island for a minimum of two years. 

Trail of Lights is part of the broader LightState project, which aims to bring innovative art experiences to various regions. This collaborative effort extends beyond Mildura, with a sister installation titled "Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra - FOSO" located in Wentworth. Together, these installations serve as beacons of creativity and inspiration, enriching the cultural fabric of Victoria and beyond.

Find out more about FOSO www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au