A colourful collection of painted boomerangs returned to the Wee Waa Community Arts and Cultural Centre for the official opening of a special project.
“The Painted Boomerang project began in July 2023 with a community donation from Santos Narrabri and has since grown into a whole wall of boomerangs painted by individuals and local community groups,” explained WWCACC program facilitator Lisa Almagro.
“We currently have 350 plus Boomerangs installed in the main gallery and they are not only a visual masterpiece and a celebration of Gamilaraay culture but they convey a heartfelt message of reconciliation and what we can achieve when we work together as a community.”
Lisa explained how local residents and organisations had contributed by picking up a boomerang from the arts hub and painting it for the project, and then in true boomerang style – they returned their unique artwork for the gallery display.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed a boomerang,” said WWCACC program facilitator Lisa Almagro.
“To all the individuals and groups across the shire that participated – well done. Together we have created a truly remarkable piece.
“Thanks to those who helped out behind the scenes to make the magic happen.
“Thank you Wee Waa High School, Wee Waa Public School, Wee Waa Rotaract, CWA Branch Wee Waa, Wee Waa Men’s Shed, Wee Waa Local Aboriginal Lands Council, Burren Junction
Playgroup, RiverBank Youth Works, Narrabri & District Community Aid Service, Integr8y, CSIRO, NDCAS Toy Library Play Group, Namoi Women’s Shed, School Holiday workshops at the WWCACC, DCJ- Community Corrections, Arts North West, Narrabri Shire, KJB Cultural Creations, Create and Santos Narrabri.
“The boomerangs will remain on display in the gallery until Wednesday, September 4.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us in the gallery for the official opening and morning tea.
“Thank you to our Aunty Helen Wenner for giving the Acknowledgment of Country, for her love of culture and community and for sharing those with us.
“The Wee Waa community does connection, culture and reconciliation better than any town I’ve had the privilege to be in. Thank you for letting me bring these projects to life.
“It was amazing to experience the joy, from children and adults alike.
“Together they’re spectacular.
“The best bit is searching for and finding your boomerang on the wall.”
