Young children in Coolamon will come face to face with their colourful Indigenous history, thanks to funding made possible by the Nationals in Government.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke secured $7,000 funding from Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Sarah Mitchell.
The grant will enable local artist Robert Clark to repaint the mural on the side of the Early Childhood Centre.
“When I heard about this project I knew we had to find a way to support it,” Ms Cooke said.
“This will enable Council to employ a local Indigenous artist to teach our youngsters about their history, while at the same time creating a mural the whole town can be proud of,” Ms Cooke said.
“We welcomed Minister Mitchell to Coolamon some few short weeks ago to announce a grant for the Up to Date store, and I’m thrilled she was as excited about the project at the Early Childhood Centre as I am.”
The project will include repainting the exterior with students to contribute to the artwork, as well as funding a family fun day to unveil the work.
“Steph is a relentless advocate for all of the communities of the Cootamundra electorate. It is great to be part of a government which is able to support this worthy project, and communities like Coolamon,” Ms Mitchell said.
Coolamon Shire Council Community Development Officer Jessica Inch said Council prides itself on promoting Indigenous inclusion and knowledge-sharing.
“Through-out these type of experiences children are given opportunities to extend their knowledge of diversity, develop positive attitudes towards inclusion and broaden their understanding of Australian culture,” Ms Inch said.
Last month, Ms Cooke and Minister Mitchell announced a grant of $6,000 for display materials to complete the Up to Date Store’s Indigenous exhibit.
