In the spirit of positive community engagement, an Aboriginal artwork has been unveiled at Gundagai Police Station.
The artwork is the culmination of a four-month project and is designed to promote awareness of domestic violence and break down any barriers that may exist between Aboriginal youth and police.
‘Connections with community – White Ribbon’ is the message of non-violence featured in the artwork, which will be at the main entrance of the Gundagai Police Station.
Wagga Wagga-based Aboriginal artist, Tyronne Hoerler, led a group of seven students and local police officers, who each contributed to the artwork.
The original concept for the project was proposed by Sergeant Joanne Gallant from Gundagai Police Station earlier this year.
“The idea was to have a group of police working with a small group of Aboriginal students from the local high school to erode barriers and dispel any myths,” Sergeant Gallant said.
“This also gave us an opportunity to educate the students and talk about the issues surrounding domestic violence in the community of Gundagai and the wider community.”
Police were joined by Community Elders, the Mayor of Gundagai Abb McAlister, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke and students and teachers from Gundagai High School for the unveiling of the artwork yesterday (Tuesday 7 July 2020).
Riverina Police District Commander, Superintendent Bob Noble, said the artwork will become a permanent part of Gundagai Police Station.
“This artwork was designed to be a lasting visual icon at the police station to show connection of community and unity,” Supt Noble said.
“This artwork also marks the respect the NSW Police Force has for Indigenous culture throughout our state.
“The NSW Police Force is committed to ensuring our ties with Aboriginal people is strong and acts as a partnership in addressing the prevention of fear and crime in our state.”
