About this place
What to expect
Guildford Historic Town, known traditionally as Mandoon by the Whadjuk Noongar people, is a place of deep cultural and spiritual importance. Stirling Square located in Guildford has served as a significant gathering site for Noongar communities—a place for storytelling, connection, and cultural continuity. To honour this rich heritage, Kaleep, Aboriginal Hearth artwork, was created by artists Nic Compton and Sharyn Egan in close collaboration with local Noongar Elders. The artwork is thoughtfully integrated into the landscape. It features culturally meaningful elements such as Balga and Sheoak trees, which represent resilience, traditional knowledge, and a sense of comfort. Granite, recycled jarrah timber, and red ochre finishes were carefully selected to reflect the natural tones and textures of Noongar Boodja (Country). Imagery engraved into concrete, timber, and stone—chosen through consultation with Elders—tells a visual story that honours Whadjuk culture and presence. Together, these elements form a peaceful and inclusive space—one that invites reflection, fosters understanding, and keeps Noongar stories and connection to Country at the heart of Guildford.