Earlier this year, during National Reconciliation Action Week, we partnered with Perth Airport to hold a series of workshops with Aboriginal artist Buffie Punch of the Noongar Nation, completing a unique artwork that represents the journey of OCS in Australia.
Santhy Pallotta, OCS Australia General Manager of Operations, said she had approached Perth Airport to be a part of the workshop given the long-standing relationship they have.
“As part of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), we wanted to engage with a local artist to help us create an artwork that explores our journey. Central to that, is our relationships with our customers.
“Perth Airport is one of our longest-standing customers, so it was an easy choice to ask Terminal Facilities Controller, Tammie McCue if the airport would like to participate. She jumped on board, and we were lucky enough to have Buffie hold workshops where we could make two pieces of bespoke art – one for the airport, and one for OCS.”
The artwork, titled ‘Danjoo’ which means ‘together’ in Noongar, was developed using a collaborative art style and traditional Aboriginal symbols to showcase our path of growth and connection.
“The piece portrays all the aspects that OCS represents. As well as reflecting our TRUE Values (Trust, Respect, Unity, Empowerment) at the centre of the piece, it also shows our respect and expresses our commitment to our communities. Having it presented as part of NAIDOC week makes it especially poignant. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far and look forward to working more closely with our indigenous communities.”
Aboriginal artist Buffie Punch says she started the workshop by introducing herself and her cultural connection to Noongar Boodja – Noongar Country. Then each group chose a symbol or created their own that had a personal meaning to them and added it to the canvas.
“During this process, the group had discussions about the significance of Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week and what they mean to Aboriginal people.”
Punch says the discussions were organic and led to deeper discussions about Aboriginal history and the importance of recognition, reconciliation, and what it means for the future.
“It was an honour to acknowledge NAIDOC Week with the artwork – it reflected the importance of having visual art to show acknowledgement and respect.”
The artwork will hang in our Perth head office with aspects incorporated to our RAP, and the Perth Airport piece is now adorning the walls in the Alpha Building at the Airport.
