ECU’s University of the Future team rolls its sleeves up for Reconciliation Week

Edith Cowan University (ECU) has shown its commitment to this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action’, with its University of the Future project team’ assisting Badimia Yamatji/Ballardong Noongar artist, Acacia Collard, to create her stunning sand mural for Reconciliation WA’s Walk for Reconciliation.  

The 8m wide sand mural was created on the ECU City Campus site which, upon completion in 2025, will be home to the Kurongkurl Katitjin, ECU’s Centre for Indigenous Australian Education and Research.  

A team of eight staff and student volunteers from ECU who, under the guidance of Ms Collard, meticulously laid out over two trailers and 12 buckets of sand to create the masterpiece.  

Ms Collard shared the story behind the mural as the team scattered the sand.  

“The centre of the circle represents the beginning of time, or the Nyetting,” said Ms Collard.  

“The circles emanating from the centre represent the thousands of years since the creation time and the black sand represents the Elders, gathered together sharing stories and yarning.  

“The wave surrounding them is the pattern of the belly of the Wagyl, creating the hills, valleys and rivers, looking after the fresh water. 

“Which brings us to the present and what this week is all about, with people of all backgrounds coming together to share and learn.”  

Visit the Reconciliation Australia website or Reconciliation WA website to learn about reconciliation and how to become further involved.