The merging of First Peoples’ stories art and technology has led to more National Broadband Network (NBN Co) utility cabinets across Greater Geelong being transformed into vibrant pieces of art.
Ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists were commissioned to create nine designs for the nbn cabinets which serve as essential infrastructure to enable phone and internet providers to connect to properties:
- Michelle Searle - The Hands of Support in Community
- Bri Apma Hayes - Connection
- Lowell ‘Salty One’ Hunter and Djamari Hunter - Country and Connection
- Nikki Stanley - Markings
- Chloe Wegener - Connections Across The Continent
- Billy-Jay O’Toole – Dja
- Ricky Abrahams – Sea of Life
- Jurrawaa - The Setting Sun of the Serpent
- Jenna Oldaker - Ton-Ton (Brain)
Mayor Trent Sullivan
The nbn cabinets go beyond their practical function by being a platform for cultural expression.
Given our municipality has the largest population of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in any local government area in Victoria we are thrilled to amplify the visibility of First Nations’ cultures in urban settings.
The eye catching designs not only give passersby the opportunity to pause and contemplate the deeper story behind the artwork but also help to foster a greater appreciation for First Peoples’ stories in the community.
The nine new designs add to the First Nations NBN Box Art Trail that runs from central Geelong to Marshall and are well worth a visit!
Andrea Appleby NBN Co General Manager - National Stakeholder Engagement
nbn is proud to collaborate with Council to transform our green cabinets from a symbol of connectivity to a symbol of connection.
These beautiful artworks are helping to share stories as a way to learn and celebrate the culture of First Nations people and be a visual reminder of reconciliation in the community.
Artist Michelle Searle
I am excited to be a part of the First Nations NBN Box Designs which encourages the sharing of our culture and stories through art and raises the awareness of cultural safety in the environment we live in.”
Just like our artwork we are all different and on our own personal cultural journeys.
Find out more about each First Nations artist their artwork and nbn cabinet location by visiting https://geelong.link/First-Nations-NBN-Box-Art.
The First Nations NBN Box Art Trail is a collaborative effort between various stakeholders including the City of Greater Geelong NBN Co Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative and local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
This project demonstrates the City’s commitment to building a strong relationship and partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
Read about our work around supporting Reconciliation through our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan.