Melbourne City complete traditional Birrarung William walk

Melbourne City players have completed the traditional Birrarung William walk, which highlights the significance of one of the city's most iconic areas to the traditional custodians of the land, ahead of Saturday's indigenous recognition A-League match.

Melbourne City players after completing the traditional Birrarung William walk Source: Melbourne City

Located between Federation Square and Birrarung Marr on Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River, the Birrarung Willam walk incorporates seven key sites of significance for Aboriginal Australians.

Thursday's walk, which was led by Koori Heritage Trust guide Rob Hyatt, provided City players with an insight into the meeting place of Victoria’s first people.

Socceroos icon and City star Tim Cahill was on hand during the walk and team-mate Bruce Kamau said the experience helped widen his understanding of the indigenous culture in Melbourne.

"The whole squad were really involved in the tour and it was fascinating to see the Aboriginal art installations, artefacts and to learn about the meaning and connection behind this area to the Aboriginal people," Kamau said.

"It is such a popular area of Melbourne and to gain a deeper understanding of how the landscape has changed over time, but remains an important part of Aboriginal history, was really fulfilling."

Saturday’s round 23 home match against Newcastle Jets is City's annual indigenous recognition match, where the club acknowledges the original owners of the land and educates players on Aboriginal history and traditions.

The Birrurung Willam walk will now become an annual event for City in the lead up to their indigenous recognition match, while the club’s new signings will each take part in the walk as part of their introduction.