The life size, bronze cast statue will be complete and ready to install in November, with the Queens Gardens selected as the site being a recognised iconic park.
William Cooper, an Australian Aboriginal political activist and community leader was born on Yorta Yorta country over 100 years ago.
Some of William Cooper’s achievements include:
- Responsible for the establishment of NAIDOC Week
- Established the Aboriginal Advancement League
- Representation in Parliament, enfranchisement and land rights and to King George V
- Petition to the German Consulate at the persecution of Jews several weeks after Kristallnacht in Germany (December 6, 1938).
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Dinny Adem is pleased Shepparton will now be able to truly honour and acknowledge William and his work.
“William Cooper was an amazing man, and placing a statue in his honour at the Queens Gardens will acknowledge his lasting local, national and international legacy and highlight his work and life.
“I am proud to have such a man from and recognised in our city, and I am excited to see it complete later this year,” said Cr Adem.
The statue will support Greater Shepparton residents’ ongoing learning about William Cooper and promote his significant contributions regarding racism, the rights of Aboriginal people and diversity.
The initiative is an initiative of the William Cooper Memorial Committee. The William Cooper Memorial Committee are raising funds to design and create the statue to be placed in the Queen’s Gardens, for more information or to make a donation contact Gail Ellard on 0417 215 691.
