Wamarra acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands upon which we work, live and socialise. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who we recognise as Australia’s First Peoples whose cultural practices continue today.
As we mark 50 Years of Deadly, we’re reflecting on one of the most recognisable parts of Wamarra's identity. The artwork that sits across our brand.
Many people will have seen it on our sites, vehicles, documents and digital platforms. Every line, shape and symbol carries meaning. Together, they tell a story about people, Country and the journey we are on.
The artwork was created by proud artist and Wiradjuri man Darren Wighton, whose connection to Indigenous culture, community and storytelling sits at the heart of the design.
Darren grew up in Condobolin on the Lachlan River and now lives in Albury-Wodonga. A self-taught artist and cultural educator, he has spent years sharing culture through painting, education and community work.
The opportunity to create artwork for Wamarra came through long-standing relationships and a shared commitment to creating opportunities for Aboriginal people.
"It was a good opportunity to come together and collaborate," Darren said to Managing Director, Hayden Heta in a recent interview.
That spirit of collaboration remains woven throughout the artwork today. It reflects the relationships between Wamarra, our people, clients, partners and communities. Relationships that continue to create meaningful and sustainable opportunities for Aboriginal people.
"It holds a lot of depth and meaning," Darren said.
"It speaks to culture, connection and the relationships behind the work."
This year's NAIDOC Week theme, 50 Years of Deadly, celebrates the strength, achievements and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples over the past five decades.
For Darren, it's a chance to reflect on those who have helped pave the way.
"Fifty Years of Deadly remembers where we've come from, the strength we've gained and the Elders who have gone before us."
While there is still work to do, Darren believes it is important to recognise progress and celebrate the wins along the way.
Wamarra is a Wiradjuri word meaning "to build".
That meaning sits behind every project, partnership and opportunity we create.
The artwork reflects that same purpose. It carries stories of connection, culture and aspiration, while recognising the people, places and relationships that continue to shape our journey.
This NAIDOC Week, we celebrate those stories and the culture that continues to guide them.
