Today District 15 held a morning tea to official unveil its copy of the artwork “Working Together” by artist Emma Bamblett on the anniversary of the Apology to Australia's Indigenous Peoples.
A number of guests attended this morning’s event, Ballarat City Council Mayor and Councilors and council staff, Local elders and members of the Koorie Engagement Action Group, Partner agency representatives and CFA staff and volunteers.
An opportunity existed to remember a significant event in Australia’s history, unveil a striking new artwork and increase our mutual understanding with a tour of the office and District emergency coordination center.
Australian Indigenous art is the oldest ongoing tradition of art in the world. Art has always been an important part of Aboriginal life, connecting past and present, the people and the land. Manager Human Resources John Ruyg said “Many people don’t have the opportunity to form personal connections with indigenous culture – it mostly happens though media or the arts.”
The artwork “Working Together” was commissioned by CFA in June 2014 to demonstrate its commitment to Aboriginal inclusion and engagement as outlined in its Koori Inclusion Action Plan 2014-2019.
This is a copy of the original artwork which is hung at CFA HQ in Burwood East, Melbourne. 20 copies have been distributed across the state to CFA District Offices and we here at Ballarat have decided to commemorate this artwork with a special morning tea.
Acting Operations Manager Bernie Fradd said, "We are fortunate to receive this painting to complement our collection of 5 indigenous artworks located throughout the office by artist Geoff Manthey of the Kooma tribe South West Queensland. We hope that we will be able to add to our collection with a local artist in the future.
"Our communication and engagement with the local Koori community directly impacts on our ability to deliver effective services. By engaging the indigenous community and forming collaborative partnerships, we are able to develop a deeper understanding of how to effectively respond to the community’s needs."
Local Elder Larry Kanoa thanked the CFA and District 15 for recognising the anniversary and said it was one of the better sorry day events that he has attended and looks forward to working with CFA in the future.
Author: Sherene Mounier - District Volunteerism Coordinator