Mural unveiled at Lorne health campus

A HIGHLY anticipated mural has been unveiled in Lorne ahead of NAIDOC Week delivering what the artist is calling a reflection of the region’s commitment to inclusion.

The mural designed by local Aboriginal contemporary artist Gerard Black at Great Ocean Road Health’s (GORH) Lorne campus was shown during National Reconciliation Week earlier this month in front of residents and patients of the clinic.

“The representation of the artwork itself shows the spirit in the forest and in the ocean, and these run either side of the centre pathway,” Mr Black said.

“It also depicts the story human, community, land, water, spiritual, ancestral, and healing connections.

“The depictions of people without bias of age, gender or race are all represented within the central pathway with the use of ancient patterns and symbols used throughout the design.”

Colac Aboriginal Gathering Place co-ordinator at the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative Ebony Hickey led proceedings with a smoking ceremony, acknowledging the land the mural sits on for those in attendance.

Great Ocean Road Health chief executive officer Sandy Chamberlin was extremely impressed with the unveiling of the mural and how it will be used as a tool to bring together members of the community.

“I’m so proud of how the staff have been in bringing this project together,” Ms Chamberlin said.

“Gerard has done an amazing job in capturing the essence of how we interact, care, and deliver our service to our community.

“I hope the mural will create conversation and be admired by future generations.”

Following the successful unveiling of Lorne’s mural, GORH announced a similar mural will be unveiled at its Apollo Bay campus in the coming months.