I AM writing to support Wiradyuri Elder Dinawan Dyirribang's call to acknowledge all of our history of Bathurst, including the Bathurst Wars, and honour the warrior Windradyne who led his people to defend their land and food source against invaders.
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In the interest of moving to a reconciled future together, the installation of public art that acknowledges the stories of our First Nation peoples is a positive first step.
However, I strongly suggest that any Wiradyuri totem, art, or words used in a public art context should be created with the input from the Custodians of the Wiradyuri Nation, and done with respect for the truth.
READ ALSO: New sign by the river tells Wiradyuri story
There are many opportunities to incorporate such stories in our proposed Bathurst Town Centre Master Plan.
In Victoria, an Indigenous Aboriginal Design Charter was created in consultation between the design industries, Deakin University and local First Nations peoples.
A Wiradyuri Nation Design Charter involving the Wiradyuri Elders, Charles Sturt University and design disciplines could be created to ensure that respect, honour and wisdom of First Nation people are reflected in our built environments and landscapes.