As part of its commitment to reconciliation, the City of Perth commissioned artwork endemic to the area to display proudly on refuse trucks, ranger utes and on staff uniforms.
The artwork Makuru – Season Story by Nerolie Bynder, a proud Badimia-Nyoongar-Yamatji woman, was chosen by the City of Perth’s Elders Advisory Group for its depiction of the Whadjuk Nyoongar connection to the land and the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan).
Making a visible statement about the City’s commitment to reconciliation, staff uniforms were branded with the artwork to be worn by public-facing staff including rangers, parking officers, surveillance officers and customer service officers during NAIDOC Week and significant days celebrating Aboriginal culture throughout the year.
In addition, five of the City’s fleet vehicles - two refuse trucks and two utes – were branded with decals of this artwork.
Banners installed down St Georges Terrace now also proudly display the artwork, featuring Nyoongar wording such as ‘Wanju, Wanju’ – welcome – and ‘Boodjara’ – belong to country.
“Branding of uniforms, banners and vehicles with Aboriginal artwork supports the City to demonstrate strong leadership in reconciliation with the community,” Chair Commissioner Eric Lumsden said.
“This will contribute to building an organisation that recognises and celebrates cultural diversity and one that is focussed on strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples.
“Collaborating with Traditional Owners has helped the City to learn about the history and culture of Aboriginal peoples as we strive for the common goal of reconciliation.”
More than two years after starting its reconciliation journey, the City of Perth is beginning to progress towards an Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan.
Issued by: Brooke Hunter, Strategic Communications Advisor, 0448 610 834, brooke.hunter@cityofperth.wa.gov.au