Gundagai’s police and local students have come together to raise awareness of domestic violence.
A collaborative artwork has been created by seven Indigenous students, Wagga Wagga artist Tyronne Hoeler and local police to break down barriers and discuss the issue of domestic violence in the local community.
The artwork will be housed in the Gundagai Police Station as a constant reminder of the connection between local police and the community.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke unveiled the artwork and said it was a visual representation of the community’s strong relationships.
“It’s so important our communities have a positive relationship with our police, and this project has been fantastic at forging a great relationship and celebrating Indigenous art,” Ms Cooke said.
“This work of art is testament to what can be achieved when different groups come together to understand and trust one another, and make a strong statement against domestic violence.”
“I am so proud of the Gundagai community for what they have achieved here.”
Superintendent Bob Noble from the Riverina Police District said the artwork will be prominently displayed at the Gundagai Police Station and signified an understanding between the local Indigenous community and police.
“We know that unfortunately Aboriginal people and particularly Aboriginal women and children are more likely to be the subject of domestic violence,” Superintendent Noble said.
“I think it shows we’ve gone a long way in terms of our relationship with the Indigenous community, I’m particularly excited about it being a community, school and police project that brought us all together.”
