PAVING THE WAY

The AFL’s Indigenous Round is a momentous occasion that celebrates and recognizes the rich cultural heritage and contributions of First Nations people to the game of Australian Rules Football. It serves as a platform to honor the Indigenous players, coaches, and communities, while also promoting reconciliation, understanding, and respect. In this year’s Indigenous Round, the Centrals Bulldogs have unveiled a remarkable artwork titled “Paving the Way,” created by Angelina Brim and Nikita Herd, two young First Nations women. This blog post delves into the significance of Indigenous Round in AFL and explores the profound symbolism behind the Centrals Bulldogs’ captivating design.

Honoring Our Elders

The chosen theme for this year’s NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) is “For our elders,” highlighting the importance of acknowledging and respecting the wisdom, guidance, and cultural heritage passed down by the older generations. Nina and Nikita’s artwork beautifully captures the essence of this theme. It pays homage to the strong men and women who have paved the way for future generations, not just as grandparents but also as trailblazing aunties, uncles, and community leaders.

Symbolism in “Paving the Way”

The artwork “Paving the Way” incorporates five significant symbols that hold deep meaning and are inspired by the artists’ surroundings and cultural heritage.

1. Dhari: The Dhari, a symbol of Torres Strait Islanders, holds great cultural significance. It is used in ceremonies and dances on the Islands. By incorporating the Dhari in their artwork, Nina and Nikita honor the Torres Strait Islander culture and the contributions of this vibrant community to the broader Indigenous fabric.
2. Elder Symbol: The inclusion of an Elder symbol reflects the artists’ respect for the wisdom, knowledge, and guidance provided by the elders—past, present, and emerging. Elders are the custodians of cultural beliefs and traditions, and their contributions are invaluable in shaping Indigenous communities.
3. Kangaroo Tracks: Kangaroo tracks hold a totemic significance and represent the Indigenous connection to the land and its resources. The kangaroo is not only a source of sustenance but also provides fur for clothing, bones for tools and weaponry, and plays a role in ceremonial practices. By incorporating kangaroo tracks, the artists acknowledge the vital role of totemic animals in Indigenous culture.
4. Person and Child Symbol: This symbol represents the collective efforts of the community in nurturing and supporting Indigenous athletes. It emphasizes that the journey of an athlete is not undertaken in isolation but rather within a community that provides encouragement and guidance.
5. Barron River Outline: The outline of the central river system in Cairns, the Barron River, holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the artists. It signifies their respect for creation, dreamtime stories, and upbringing. The traced path of the Barron River, passing through significant locations such as Oak Forest, Mantaka community, Din Din (Barron Falls), and Lake Placid, pays tribute to the origins and heritage of the artists’ ancestors.

The Indigenous Round in AFL is a powerful platform that showcases and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of First Nations people. The Centrals Bulldogs’ artwork, “Paving the Way,” created by Nina and Nikita, beautifully embodies the theme “For our elders” by honouring the trailblazing men and women who have paved the way for future generations. Each symbol incorporated into the artwork holds immense significance, reflecting the artists’ passion for their cultural heritage and their deep connection to their surroundings.

As we embrace the Indigenous Round in AFL, let us all recognise and appreciate the contributions of Indigenous communities, both on and off the field.