headspace Dubbo - Acknowledgement PlaquePrint Page

All headspaces across the country received the plaques in their local Aboriginal language as an acknowledgement of the land the office sits on and it’s elders, past and present. The stunning plaque and its accompanying artwork, was painted by Riki Salam.

During 2016–17, headspace commissioned we are 27 creative an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander design agency and Positive Social Solutions, to develop a bespoke artwork that captures the essence of headspace and its service offerings that are specific to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and communities. In consultation with the headspace Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory committee members and headspace centre staff, the artwork • Mind • Body • Spirit • Culture • Country was created and launched during Reconciliation Week in May 2017. The artwork also provides the backdrop to the headspace Acknowledgement of Country plaques. Each headspace centre developed wording for their plaque, specific and relevant to their local community. This was a targeted engagement initiative to encourage collaborative work with local Elders and community members to acknowledge the Traditional Owners, First Nation Peoples and country where the centre is located. This initiative was driven by the organisation recognising the importance of fostering ongoing respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and to open dialogue around the mental health and wellbeing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in communities.
headspace, Year in Review, 2016-2017.

7th July 2017 – In keeping with the importance of NAIDOC Week - a week to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, headspace Dubbo will be unveiling their new Acknowledgement of Country plaque and artwork. The artwork has been created by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist Riki Salam of We are 27 Creative, after consultation with key members of the headspace network and cultural advisors. headspace Dubbo Program Manager Rachel Thomas says the unveiling of the artwork and Acknowledgement of Country plaque is important as it emphasises the importance of recognising the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the true custodians of the land. “The artwork describes the relationship between mind, body, spirit, culture and country. To have something that so beautifully draws together the message of headspace and the beauty of Aboriginal spirituality is extremely important to us and we are truly honoured to be able to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in such a meaningful way.” headspace Dubbo invites you to be a part of the official unveiling and morning tea: When: 11am Monday 10th July 2017 Where: headspace Dubbo Centre, 23 Church St Dubbo Format: 11am – Official artwork and plaque unveiling 11:15am.
Marathon Health Media Release, 7 July 2017.