Aboriginal Street Art project grows

Artist Matt Adnate, Mayor Seema Abdullah and extended family of both Aunty Geraldine Briggs and Aunty Elizabeth Morgan celebrate the choice of subjects for the next mural.

Stage 3 of the Greater Shepparton City Council, Victoria, Aboriginal Street Art project will deliver a new mural recognising two significant local female Elders.


The joint project between Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation (YYNAC) will honour the late Aunty Geraldine Briggs and the late Aunty Elizabeth Morgan, both highly regarded Yorta Yorta Elders who were heavily involved in the advocating of rights and support for Aboriginal people. 

The mural on the DHHS wall will be painted by returning artist Matt Adnate, who also painted murals on the Goulburn Valley Water wall. 

Mayor, Seema Abdullah, said she was excited that the next mural of the Aboriginal Street Art Project would recognise two significant
female Aboriginal leaders. 

“These two ladies did so much for their community and deserve recognition right throughout our region.”

Secretary DHHS, Kym Peake, said, “The Greater Shepparton community has a rich history of extraordinary Aboriginal leaders. 

“Geraldine Briggs and Elizabeth Morgan were tireless activists for the rights of Aboriginal people.  

“The Department of Health and Human Services shares the commitment to local self-determination to improve outcomes for the people of the Yorta Yorta nation.  

“It is an honour to commemorate these amazing women and to work with their communities.” 

Chief Executive of YYNAC and daughter of Elizabeth Morgan, Monica Morgan, said she was proud of her mother and felt that it was special tribute to a dedicated Cummeragunja woman who did so much for her people.  

“I know mum would be humbled by being recognised within her country of Greater Shepparton for her achievements and contribution to the Yorta Yorta people, and her tireless efforts advocating for her people.”

Aunty Frances Mathyssen, eldest child of Geraldine Briggs, said her mother was a special and strong lady and contributed great things to Shepparton and Australia. 

“I am proud that mum will feature in a mural, and that she will be recognised
in her home town.