The Tribute Garden at the Immigration Museum is a poignant public artwork located in the northern garden of the museum. Designed by Melbourne-based artist Evangelos Sakaris and led by Gina Batsakis, the garden pays tribute to 7000 immigrants from over 90 countries who have journeyed to Victoria since the 1800s. The names of these immigrants, along with the languages and dialects spoken by Aboriginal communities, are recorded in this symbolic space.
Since its launch in 1998, the Tribute Garden has served as a powerful reminder of the diverse histories and stories of Victoria’s communities. The project concluded in 2002, leaving a lasting legacy that honors the contributions of immigrants to the region. While the Immigration Museum is unable to add more names to the garden, migrants who arrived in Australia through any port can have their names registered at the Australian National Maritime Museum’s Welcome Wall in Sydney.
The Immigration Museum, situated on the bank of the Birrarung (Yarra River), explores themes of migration, identity, citizenship, and community through its rich collections, exhibitions, events, and education programs. By engaging with communities and creative practitioners, the museum creates opportunities for social interaction, empathy, and debate. Visitors are invited to connect with the museum and each other, delving into the histories and contemporary issues that shape Victoria’s diverse cultural landscape.
