The Grand Launch took place at the first mural which is located on the wall of Goulburn Valley Water, which recognised Pastor Sir Douglas Nicholls and William Cooper.
Over 500 people attended and enjoyed a traditional smoking ceremony, music performances, a traditional dance and speeches from family members who paid tribute to both Sir Douglas Nicholls and William Cooper.
The #AboriginalStreetArtProject - Dana Djirrungana Dunguludja Yenbena-l, will feature a series of murals throughout the Shepparton CBD that will be dedicated to recognising the local Aboriginal people and the Aboriginal Culture and History within the region.
The second stage of this project is to recognise two significant local Aboriginal females that will be selected by the local Aboriginal Elders. Both females will be announced later this year.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Dinny Adem on behalf of Council wishes to thank everyone that attended the event today and those involved in implementing this project.
“I look forward to working alongside the local community on this exciting project. It is decades and decades overdue and it is finally happening, and we can only move forward from here,” said Cr Adem.
Daughter of Sir Doug Nicholls, Aunty Pamela Pedersen said after the event, “It was just wonderful to see so many people come together today and recognise two incredible Aboriginal warriors.”
Great Granddaughter of William Cooper, Leonie Drummond said, “It’s humbling, just to see our community come together and celebrate two amazing men that have been instrumental in making such a difference in my life and also other Aboriginal people’s lives.”
CLICK HERE to learn about Greater Shepparton's #AboriginalStreetArtProject.
