Volleyball Western Australia made a significant announcement over the weekend, revealing a stunning commissioned artwork created by Delphine Schwarze of True HeArt Designs. Delphine is a proud Yamatji woman from the small town of Mullewa and currently living on Noongar Boodja. She comes from the Nanda skin group with roots tracing back to the Murchison River from Kalbarri to Northampton. Delphine also has ties to our volleyball community, with her youngest daughter participating in volleyball in Bunbury. This artwork, titled “Strong Connections”, is a visual masterpiece and holds a deep cultural significance that resonates with the local community.
The artwork featured on the new Perth Steel uniforms is a testament to the rich heritage and traditions of the Aboriginal culture. It beautifully captures the essence of a strong connection to the community, emphasising the importance of coming together and supporting one another. The imagery portrays a sense of unity and harmony, with figures passing down knowledge and guidance to future generations. Volleyball WA consulted the Perth Steel Teams, Staff, Reconciliation Working Group and the Board in the process of creating the history and values of volleyball in Western Australia.
“We are incredibly excited to showcase this amazing artwork on our new uniforms. Volleyball WA is committed to understanding and celebrating our history and connection to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and we hope that the artwork will be a visual sign of our commitment to the reconciliation journey,” expressed Karen Wickham, Volleyball WA Participation Manager and Chair of the VWA Reconciliation Working Group.
The Perth Steel athletes will proudly don these new uniforms, representing not just their team but also the spirit of the community they belong to. The incorporation of the commissioned artwork on the uniforms adds a unique touch of cultural significance and showcases the organisation’s dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in sports.
As the athletes take to the court in their new attire, they will not only be competing for victory but also carrying with them a piece of history and tradition. The unveiling of the commissioned Aboriginal artwork on the Volleyball Western Australia team uniforms marks a significant milestone in the organisation’s journey towards embracing and celebrating Indigenous culture.
Volleyball WA acknowledges that we are currently not reflective of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Western Australia, and we hope that the development of our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) will build the foundation to support our engagement and growth in this space. We are aiming to have our RAP signed off by Reconciliation Australia in the coming months.
We would also like to acknowledge the Department of Local Government, Sport, and Industries (DLGSC) and Lotterywest funding provided through the Women’s National League Grant for the Perth Steel Women, and KleenWest and TSG for their contributions to the Perth Steel Men. The Perth Steel teams are also supported by Diamond High Performance, Star Physio, and Sports Centre.
“STRONG CONNECTIONS”
This painting tells the story of a strong connection to community.
The large yarning circle depicts a place where people come from all over, to learn, yarn, laugh, continually connect, and share skills that have been passed down through generations. Yarning circles in Aboriginal culture represent the importance of connecting with our mob. They symbolise the significance of bonding with our community, strengthening ties with the land, and preserving our heritage. Our stories begin with our yarning circles, the heart of continual connection.
The mountains are a sign of strength and determination; no matter how high the challenge put in front of us, we unite as a team to overcome each obstacle. The colours represent the area on which volleyball is played. Brown being mostly on land or country, the blue represents outdoor beach volleyball alongside the blue west coast waters.
The different elements of this painting depict the overseers, protectors, and people of knowledge. They have strengthened their skills and abilities and gift their wisdom to the younger generation, ensuring the continuity of traditions and skills.
Overall, this painting highlights the ever-flowing community coming together, surrounded by people who pass down knowledge and help guide each other while maintaining harmony.
