FROM 27 June to 20 July, Salamander Bay Square will stage an exhibition of shortlisted primary school students’ artworks.
The showcase is part of Charter Hall’s “Drawing Us Together” initiative, which celebrates Indigenous storytelling and student creativity.
Thirteen Indigenous authors composed narratives to feature in this year’s community storybook, with students from over 50 primary schools across the nation invited to contribute illustrations.
“I’m incredibly proud to participate in Drawing Us Together for the second time,” returning author Coral Reeve said.
“Sharing my stories – and the stories of my people – helps inspire young minds to connect with our legacy and come together in creative expression.”
The exhibition is aligned with the 2025 NAIDOC theme, “The Next Generation; Strength, Vision, and Legacy,” and allows authors the chance to reflect on the cultural identity and intergenerational strength of First Nations communities.
“It’s an honour to contribute to a project that puts Indigenous stories in the hands of jarjum (children),” Yagara author Lynda Maybanks said.
“These stories carry culture, language, memory and hope – and it’s through creative collaboration and education that we build understanding and pride across generations.
This is how we build a generation of culturally respectful and responsive people”.
Members of the public are invited to help select the final artworks to be published in the book.
A QR code will be on display for visitors to scan and vote for their favourite artworks.
Printed and digital copies of the finalised storybook will be available in August.
By Cosette DE LORENZO
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