The BridgeClimb Sydney Climb Suit features a striking design in celebration of Sydney’s rich cultural heritage, created in collaboration with renowned First Nations artist Taleena Simon.

The original artwork commissioned by BridgeClimb, which inspired the new Climb Suit design, intricately weaves a narrative about the cultural landscape of Sydney Harbour and its surroundings.

Warrane Past & Present is more than just a visual piece; it’s a heartfelt story that captures the spirit of Sydney Harbour, echoing the memories of the Gadigal people, the first custodians of this beautiful landscape. It invites people to pause and reflect, feel the pulse of the Harbour, and embrace this unique heritage.

Blue dots gently ripple in the background, tracing the shimmering waters from Port Jackson to the Parramatta River, mapping the heart of this bustling Harbour. Amidst the canvas, light and brown dots emerge, depicting the diverse landscape that cradles the Harbour’s edge.

In the top left corner, humpback whales gracefully enter the Harbour—a timeless ritual. Across the canvas, on the top right, skilled fisherwomen command their Nawi boats, deftly casting their bara into the waters, their fires flickering with warmth and camaraderie.

Meanwhile, at the bottom left, the controlled burning of bushland paints the landscape with hues of renewal. It also represents cooking fires high on the slopes, with meals of barbecued fish and shellfish. As you take in the details, you may spot the Walla-Mulla, the young male kangaroo, leaping through the bush during a hunt.

At the centre of it all is a gathering circle symbolising BridgeClimb, with the iconic pattern of the Sydney Harbour Bridge etched within. Here, adventurers meet, eager to embark on their journey, each dot representing a guest ready to reach new heights.

Surrounding this gathering circle are smaller circles representing groups participating in the Burrawa Climb. The lines connecting the circles represent the shared history between the Gadigal people and the Burrawa groups led by guardians of culture and history, ready to guide travellers on a journey with stories of heritage and connection.

This artwork invites you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Sydney Harbour, where history, culture, and experiences converge in a timeless embrace.

Meet the artist: Taleena simon

Taleena Simon is a proud Worimi and Bundjalung woman, born and raised in the vibrant Redfern area of Sydney. Surrounded by art from a young age, Taleena’s father, James Simon, a renowned Aboriginal artist, instilled in her a deep appreciation for creativity and cultural expression.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Taleena is a multifaceted talent, showcasing her skills as an elite athlete in rugby league and rugby sevens. Her diverse experiences and cultural heritage deeply influence her artwork, reflecting the interconnectedness of her Indigenous identity and sporting journey.

Through her artwork and sporting achievements, Taleena Simon embodies the resilience, strength, and creativity of Indigenous peoples, inspiring others and paving the way for future generations.

A Q&A with Taleena

What does Gadigal land mean to you, and how has this influenced your art? 

I  was born on Gadigal land and have grown up here my whole life. This is the place I call home and feel deeply connected to, so it’s incredibly special to me. My father was a well-known artist in the Redfern community, and growing up, I had the privilege of watching him paint every day. I would walk past murals he painted around the community and feel so proud, knowing he created those works. My dad was a huge inspiration in my pursuit of art.

How did your BridgeClimb experience shape the themes and stories depicted in this artwork? 

During the Burrawa Climb, I had the chance to hear stories of the Gadigal people and Gadigal land, which truly inspired the artwork. Seeing the landscape from the top of the Bridge offered a unique perspective that further shaped my creative vision.

Can you share any personal anecdotes or feelings you had while creating this piece? 

It was an absolute honour to create artwork that reflects the history of the Gadigal people and land. Having it displayed in such an iconic place is surreal and truly humbling.

What emotions do you hope Climbers will feel when they look at your artwork? 

I hope the artwork captures the stories shared during the Climb and conveys a sense of connection. My hope is that it inspires climbers to learn more about the history of the Harbour and the First Nations people.