Bayley Misfud is a proud Peek Whurrong woman of the Maar nation, from south West Victoria (Warrnambool).
Bayley's new book Yakeen 'Dreaming' reflects respect for tradition and embraces a united future with positivity.
Beautiful spirit
Bayley's Aboriginal name, chosen by her Elders and parents, Merindah-Gunya, means 'beautiful spirit' — we are incredibly honoured to have such stunning art adorning our new rolls.
Kapa Ngoonang 'Sunset'
The artwork captures the essence of Warrnambool's beach at sunset, as the sun is sinking below the horizon amidst a canvas of pink and orange hues.
As I gaze upon it, memories flood back of evenings spent with my cousins, watching this breath-taking view over the breakwater. It's difficult to articulate the deep connection I feel to this land – a sense of safety, love, and respect ingrained in every sunset witnessed back on Country. Each one serves as a gentle reminder of life's simple joys and the profound beauty that envelops us in this sacred place we call home.
Maar Nation
The Eastern Maar are Traditional Owners in south-western Victoria. Our land extends as far north as Ararat and encompasses the Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Great Ocean Road areas. It also stretches 100m out to sea from low tide.
Great Ocean Road
“Eastern Maar” is a name adopted by the people who identify as Maar, Eastern Gunditjmara, Tjap Wurrung, Peek Whurrong, Kirrae Whurrung, Kuurn Kopan Noot and/or Yarro waetch (Tooram Tribe) amongst others. The Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung Peoples are the custodians of the lands and waters encompassed by the Great Ocean Road region and have been for millennia. Read more here »
Learn with Bayley
We were first introduced to Bayley's artwork through the fantastic work she has done in school and the broader community through her art.
Respect for country
Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo represents a powerful spiritual symbol and is often associated with auspicious outcomes including emotional freedom, joy, contentment and rain.A totem is something that we look after. It's given to us in many different ways but totem is like kin, like family. And as you look after family, you would look after your totem. And that means looking after its habitat, making sure that food's available for them. And in our cultural practices, we dance up totem. Aunty Rhonda Radley, Birpai Elder and Knowledge Keeper.
Passing it on
"I hold a deep passion for imparting knowledge on Aboriginal art and storytelling, preserving the sacred tradition entrusted to me by my Elders.
Marr (pronounced “mah")
Marr is more than water — it represents origin, identity, power, and the deep saltwater connection of the people. It symbolises a living, breathing force that shapes culture and Country.
“Ngootyoong” (pron. noo-tyoong)
Ngootyoong evokes the vastness, rhythm and strength of the coast — a word that carries the feeling of standing before something powerful, ancient, and alive. (Documented in Kirrae Whurrong language resources shared for educational use.)
