Community connects for First Nations mural launch 

Gippsland Water, Gunnai artist Alice Pepper, her family, Aboriginal community leaders and members of the Stratford community gathered on Monday to celebrate the official launch of a new mural on Stratford water tower. 

Artwork by Alice was recently applied to the tower’s surface, transforming it into a vibrant landmark.  

Managing director Sarah Cumming said the event was an opportunity to celebrate Alice’s artwork, “Cultural Flow”, and the story it tells. 

“Alice’s artistic talent and vision bring so much beauty to our community,” Ms Cumming said.  

“We’re grateful to have collaborated with her on this project and are pleased to see it come to fruition. 

“Cultural Flow is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility we have with First Nations communities to protect these precious resources for future generations.  

 “To see this project come to fruition is something we all should be excited and proud of.” 

Alice said the artwork was a symbolic of connection to Country.  

“Art is our language, it’s storytelling, and we’re actually speaking in our language through the symbols. 

“That’s why public art on Country is so important, it really connects you to the place and you feel so much pride. 

“This particular artwork is the story about us working together, with Borun representing us and Wahyang, the Spoonbill, representing Gippsland Water and together we’re working to ensure the waterways are cared for, preserved and protected for future generations.” 

For more information about Gippsland Water’s work with Traditional Owners visit: www.gippswater.com.au/traditionalowners