Camden Council has unveiled a contemplative public artwork and NSW’s first publicly accessible Wind Phone, Whispers in the Wind, which offers a unique and peaceful space for people to honour, remember and connect with loved ones they have lost.
Located along the Nepean River Trail, the installation offers a quiet place for reflection and healing in a natural setting, providing space for grief, gratitude, hope and connection in a shared public environment.
A Wind Phone, or kaze no denwa, is a disconnected telephone booth that allows visitors to hold symbolic one-way conversations with loved ones who have passed away, the Council explained in a statement.
The concept originated in Japan in 2010 when Itaru Sasaki created a phone booth following the death of his cousin. After the devastating 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the site was opened to the public and became a place of comfort for thousands of grieving people.
Since then, Wind Phones have been established in countries around the world, including Australia, the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, offering non-religious spaces for remembrance and reflection.
Mayor, Therese Fedeli said the Wind Phone reflected Council’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces that support emotional wellbeing.
“Grief is a deeply personal journey and there is no right or wrong way to navigate it,” she said.
“The Wind Phone provides a peaceful place where people can pause, reflect and express thoughts and feelings they may wish they could share with someone they have lost.
“Whether it’s speaking words left unsaid, sharing memories or simply spending a quiet moment in reflection, this space is here for anyone who may find comfort in it.
“The location along the Nepean River Trail was carefully chosen for its natural beauty and sense of tranquility. The river corridor provides a beautiful calm and reflective environment that encourages people to slow down and spend time with their thoughts.”
