LAST week saw the official unveiling of the new Welcome to Country mural, entitled Kwobardak Boodja (Beautiful Country) at the Swan Valley Visitor Centre in Guildford.

The beautiful artwork is the result of the winning design submitted by contemporary Noongar artist Chloe Calyon in an open-call design competition held by the WA Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) and the City of Swan.

“I grew up watching my loved ones especially my father painting, listening to stories and learning how to create stories has helped shape my style of art,” Ms Calyon said.

“For this mural, I wanted to create something that was not only eye-catching but something that people can read the background story to the artwork and see how everything comes together to create a story.”

Native plants such as grass trees, wattle and kangaroo paws, found throughout the Darling Scarp, are celebrated in Kwobardak Boodja. And so is the butterfly, a symbol of beauty and happiness.

“I would want people to feel happy and welcomed when they look at my design. I hope that when people walk into the Swan Valley Visitor Centre that my artwork is the first thing they see, and that they take the chance to read about the story behind it,” Ms Calyon said.

WAITOC chief executive officer Robert Taylor congratulated Ms Calyon on her achievement at the official unveiling ceremony held at Swan Valley Visitor Centre and Guildford Town Hall.

“This mural is a vibrant celebration of Noongar cultural heritage. It enhances our community and reminds us of the deep connections we share. We are proud to present this artwork as part of the Jina Aboriginal tourism action plan, inspiring appreciation for our Aboriginal heritage and for all visitors to the Swan Valley to feel welcomed.”

Midland MLA Michelle Roberts says the unveiling was a great opportunity to celebrate Indigenous culture, food and art, which all provide experiences that grow the state’s tourism industry.

“The mural’s layout symbolises the Darling Scarp and the meeting place symbols linked to represent people travelling, with the travelling lines also symbolising paths people would have taken to travel to Guildford and the Swan Valley for ceremonies, corroborees or celebrations.

“The Whadjuk Noongar people have inhabited the Swan coastal plain for more than 40,000 years and Guildford is an important place for Noongar people.”

She said the state government offered several funding programs to support Indigenous start-ups.

“These programs aim to foster economic growth and sustainability within Aboriginal communities.

“It’s wonderful to see the growth of tourism around Aboriginal experiences including bushfood and wildflower trails, iconic road trips, campgrounds and retreats.

“Currently, there are over 200 Aboriginal tours and experiences throughout Western Australia.”

Ms Calyon said she was immensely proud to be able to share this momentous achievement with her family.