The Scar Tree

The Scar Tree Sculpture was commissioned by Scentre Group for Casey Central Shopping Centre in Narre Warren South and was designed and developed in consultation with the Wurundjeri Tribe Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council.

The corten steel sculpture stands at the entrance to the centre, rising just over four meters tall. The piece is a proud representation of these significant living archaeological sites, which provide important evidence of the occupation and daily practices of local Indigenous communities.

The Inspiration: What Is a Scar Tree?

Scarred trees are typically red gum or box gum trees from which bark was carefully removed by Indigenous Australians. The bark was traditionally used to make canoes, shields, shelters and containers such as coolamons. It was removed by making controlled cuts into the trunk using stone tools or similar implements.

This process left distinctive scars on the tree. The markings often form regular shapes, square, diamond or rectangular, and can remain visible on trees that are more than 200 years old. Scarred trees are among the most identifiable and significant types of archaeological sites in Australia.

Celebrating Local Histories

In this instance, the sculpture references the scar trees that provided materials, sustenance, community and cultural continuity for the Wurundjeri people in the region now known as the City of Casey.

Lump also installed a series of Shard Planters throughout the shopping centre. These function practically as planters while introducing sculptural feature elements that enhance and activate the space.