A LARGE-SCALE public mural concept highlighting the South East’s diverse cultural links has received $48,500 in Federal Government funding.
The project, known as the Great Wall of Cultures, is an initiative of the Mount Gambier Migrant Resource Centre which will now press forward in identifying a suitable public space in the Blue Lake city for the work.
The mural plans to bring youth from Australian-born, refugee and migrant backgrounds together to provide inspiration for the painting and represent the many different cultures within the community.
Government funding was announced through the $9.3m Fostering Integration Grants program, which works at the grassroots level to help migrants integrate into Australian life and supports initiatives for social cohesion.
“We are very pleased to have been selected by the Australian Government for this project and appreciate the support of Member for Barker Tony Pasin,” Mount Gambier MRC manager Anelia Blackie said.
“The grant will enable us to bring together youth from various cultural backgrounds to talk about what their culture means to them to find commonalities and differences,” she said.
Those involved will draw pictures to represent their culture, which will then be used as inspiration for two artists to create the mural.
“Getting our youth to talk about their culture and learn from each other will go a long way in building mutual understanding and respect among Aboriginal, Australian and migrant communities,” Ms Blackie said.
Mr Pasin said the grants ensured Australia continued to be the most successful migrant nation in the world.
“Local community organisations have an important role to play in creating social cohesion and ensuring the unity, prosperity and security of our nation,” Mr Pasin said.
“The Fostering Integration Grants program is about supporting organisations that work at the grassroots level in their community and have a strong understanding of the challenges facing migrants.”
