Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) has commissioned two Indigenous artists to craft a large mural

at East Shores 1B for National Close the Gap Day, to acknowledge and raise awareness for

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the community.

Gooreng Gooreng artist Howard Butler and Byellee artist Patrica Coleman have transformed the

lower level of the existing East Shores office building by installing twelve colourful hand-crafted

panels, expected to wow park visitors.

The artwork features some of the region’s favourite local animals including dolphins and turtles.

Indigenous Affairs Advisor Lee-ann Dudley said the mural doesn’t just celebrate the culture of First

Nations People but also raises awareness.

“It’s important we celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander peoples,” Ms Dudley said.

“It is equally important to seek to close the gap with respect to life expectancy, child morality and

educational and employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“This new artwork at the East Shores parkland is a fantastic way to acknowledge the traditional

owners of the land and showcase their talent outside an art gallery.

“I know the art will be admired by locals and visitors for years to come and hopefully start a

conversation about the Close the Gap campaign.”

Executive General Manager of People and Community, Rowen Winsor said East Shores provided

the perfect location for the mural.

“GPC has a long history of supporting the Traditional Owners of the First Nations Bailai, Gurang,

Gooreng Gooreng, Taribelang Bunda peoples and this artwork is another way of acknowledging

First Nations People, celebrating and show casing their rich history,” Ms Winsor said.

“The mural is the perfect addition to our parklands and it will be an important art piece that I am

sure our community will relish,” she said.

“At GPC, we’re committed to making a difference and creating brighter prospects for our

community.”

The mural is being unveiled today, on March 18 to coincide with National Close the Gap Day.

For the last decade, thousands of Australians have shown their support for Close the Gap by

marking National Close the Gap Day each March.