At Ventia, we recognise and respect Indigenous Australians, their culture and heritage.

Our Road Asset Management Contract (RAMC) team in South Coast Queensland recently partnered with local indigenous artist Luther Cora to create a mural that celebrates and conveys the local cultures, contract values and communities in which the team operate.

The artwork entitled Our Country, Our Connection signifies community and the coming together of different people and cultures to work for better. The three totems represent the three regions that encompass the Yugambeh Country and RAMC road network. They include:

• Eagle - Gold Coast, Scenic Rim, Logan
• Goanna - Ipswich and Brisbane (neighbours)
• Snake - Stradbroke (coastal neighbours)

To mark this special moment, the mural was presented at a cultural and contract celebration event. Luther and members of his family performed a Welcome to Country Ceremony and showcased the various dances of the Yugambeh people, educating about the significance of each element of the artwork, and sharing the stories of their people. 

The team then enjoyed a site BBQ, experiencing some indigenous flavours including crocodile meatballs with a lemon myrtle, lime and coconut sauce, and kangaroo skewers! 

The artwork will be mounted within the office, and copies printed on PPE, vehicle wraps and work shirts. 

Andrew Spence, Contract Manager, says: 'I hope this striking piece of art will spark conversation and support an open dialogue with everyone we work with to cultivate awareness and appreciation of our local indigenous heritage.'

We want to reinforce these conversations via toolbox talks with our team, who with this crucial knowledge can share what they know wherever they go with confidence.

"Most importantly, we will work with local groups to source indigenous supply and subcontractor organisations. This is to ensure we are creating meaningful opportunities for First Nation people's in the construction and infrastructure services industry."