NAIDOC Week Celebrations in the City of Busselton

Published on 06 July 2018

An exhibition to celebrate NAIDOC week opens on Saturday 7 July at Railway House on the Busselton Foreshore. Entitled Boola Kala, Moorditij Maaraka – Many Colours, Deadly Hands, this wonderful exhibition features the artwork of local Aboriginal community members.

The exhibition, which runs until 16 August, was made possible with funding from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the City of Busselton.

Deputy Mayor, John McCallum described the exhibition as insightful. “Artists from different backgrounds and age groups have contributed to the exhibition demonstrating a diversity of style and influence. Staging the exhibition has been a collaborate exercise. Events like this help progress reconciliation at the local level and I want to thank everyone involved.”

Cr McCallum also applauded the efforts of Cape Naturaliste College student Georgia O’Neill who has been working at the City of Busselton as part of a student work-placement program sponsored by Rio Tinto.

Georgia played a key role in the Walking on Boodja Project - another important component of local NAIDOC celebrations this year.  This project, which is still running, involves the installation of many feet cut from felt and inscribed with a personalised message composed for Aboriginal women who have provided strength and guidance to their friends and families. These messages of support align with the 2018 NAIDOC Week theme - “Because of her, we can.” While the focus has been on Aboriginal women, messages for all Aboriginal people can be left.

Community members can still participate in the Walking on Boodja Project by writing their own positive affirmation to Aboriginal people.  All the required materials are available at the Youth and Community Activity Building on the Busselton Foreshore until the end of the school holidays. The felt feet are being installed in the Art Geo Cultural Complex Merenj Boodja Bush Food Garden and will be on display until the end of July (subject to weather).

Photo opportunities: Exhibition opening Saturday 7 July between 12-2pm (with Aboriginal artists) in the Ballaarat Room, Railway House. Walking on Boodja 1pm Sunday 8 July at the Merenj Boodja Garden in the Queen Street Cultural Precinct. Outcomes and objectives outlined in this statement align with Key Goal Area 1: A community that is welcoming friendly and healthy.

Ends. Media enquiries can be directed to [email protected]