National Reconciliation Week—held every year from 27 May to 3 June—is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Patrick Bourke said, "Returning for its second year, the Currawa Crossing exhibition showcases artworks from Aboriginal artists from across the Riverina and Murray footprint including Albury, Coleambally, Leeton and Griffith, in the spirit of Reconciliation. The exhibition will include painted emu eggs, weaving, dot paintings and contemporary works. Currawa Crossing will be the first exhibition to be displayed in the recently renovated Corowa Art Space."
"As part of the Currawa Crossing exhibition, Council is proud to be displaying for the first time, a specially commissioned work in the Corowa Civic Centre's foyer.
In 2023, Federation Council commissioned proud Barkindji woman, contemporary Aboriginal Artist and Howlong resident Stormie Dutton to create an artwork and a digital design which forms part of Council's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) journey. Based around the core pillars of relationships, respect and opportunities, the RAP, currently under development, outlines actions for Council to take in order to enhance relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and create genuine change. It will guide Council to sustainably and strategically take meaningful action to advance reconciliation," he said.
Stormie's RAP artwork explores three themes: Our Community, Our Land and Our Water. Portrayed is the history of place, the bonds of families, and the power of the environmental connections to land from across our region. Stormie also highlights native animals residing in the Federation Council region and water as a prominent life force in our area, reflecting on the Murray River, Billabong Creek, Lake Mulwala, and Lake Urana. See image below of Stormie beside the artwork.
Art lovers can view the RAP artwork and the Currawa Crossing exhibition for free at the Corowa Art Space, opening 24th May and closing 14th July. Opening hours are Wednesday - Friday 10am - 4pm, and Saturday - Sunday from 10am to 2pm.
