Brush up way to boost First Nation learning

The murals were created as part of a Song Room community program, where engaging with First Nations Elders and artists through the arts, is a priority to help promote learning, connection and pride.
The Song Room is an arts education organisation whose members work in partnership with schools and communities across Australia to provide music and arts programs to promote excellence and equity.
Proud Worimi woman and Song Room Teaching Artist Koreena Leverett grew up in Bankstown and led the program.
She designed and painted the murals with a group of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students throughout 2022.
The first mural features footprints weaving across a wall, in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flag colours, and represents the journey of Indigenous and non-Indigenous children towards knowledge and reconciliation.
The second mural (pictured), in response to popular demand from students, is based on an underwater theme, depicting aquatic creatures from the beautiful waterways surrounding Darug, Tharawal and Gadigal Country.
The project was made possible under the Communities for Children initiative, funded by the Federal Government and facilitated by The Smith Family Bankstown.
First Nations students from Bass High School also joined the mural unveiling celebration and smoking ceremony, along with the local community and families.
Assistant Principal Matt Eastman applauded the initiative saying it was wonderful for First Nations students to learn more about their culture.
“They loved painting the mural together and learned so much from Koreena,” he said.
“The project shows them how much their heritage is welcome, valued and part of our community’s local culture; it’s been fantastic to see.”