Visitors to Western Australia’s oldest wine region can now enjoy brand new Indigenous art by the talented Noongar artist Chloe Calyon before embarking on cultural and heritage tours in the Swan Valley. New Indigenous Mural Welcomes Visitors to Swan Valley
Located just 25km from the Perth CBD, the Swan Valley is renowned for its cultural, heritage, and gourmet food experiences. With over 50 artisan wineries, breweries, and distilleries, along with local produce, art studios, and markets, the region offers a rich array of attractions.
This week, a new Welcome to Country mural at the Swan Valley Visitor Centre, designed by Chloe Calyon, has become the star attraction. The contemporary Noongar artist’s mural, titled Kwobardak Boodja (Beautiful Country), won an open-call design competition by the City of Swan and the WA Indigenous Tourism Operators Council.
A Celebration of Culture and Creativity
The mural’s unveiling ceremony featured distinguished guests, including Culture and Arts Minister David Templeman, Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson, and WAITOC CEO Robert Taylor. Attendees, including Ms. Calyon and her family, also enjoyed Indigenous food at the event.
Ms. Calyon shared that her inspiration came from her family’s artistic legacy. “I grew up watching my loved ones – especially my father – painting,” she said. “Listening to stories and learning how to create stories has helped shape my style of art.”
Her mural aims to blend creativity with history. “I wanted to create something not only eye-catching but something people could read the background story to, and see how everything comes together to create a story,” she explained. The artwork features native plants like grass trees, wattle, and kangaroo paws, and includes a butterfly design symbolizing happiness.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
Mr. Taylor praised the mural as a vibrant celebration of Noongar cultural heritage. “It enhances our community and reminds us of the deep connections we share,” he said. “We are proud to present this artwork as part of the JINA Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan, inspiring appreciation for our Aboriginal heritage and ensuring all visitors to the Swan Valley feel welcomed.”
Explore More Indigenous Art and Culture
Among the vineyards and attractions of the Swan Valley is the Aboriginal family-owned Maalinup, which features an art gallery, Indigenous cultural activities, and original works by Indigenous artists. The gift shop offers handpainted glassware, ceramics, and woodware by local Indigenous artists. Visitors can also explore Maalinup’s bush tucker garden and a variety of native Australian foods, including herbs, spices, and jams.
The Swan Valley continues to be a hub for cultural enrichment and artistic expression, offering visitors a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
The National Indigenous Cultural Centre (NICC) is an Indigenous home.
We provide Indigenous products, music, art and news.
If you want Indigenous gifts and merchandise, bush tucker food at your next event or Indigenous entertainment at your next party, expo or conference, feel free to contact us!
Visit our page: https://nicc.org.au/
Tony Clemenger.
Chief Executive Officer.
Tel: 0419431649.
Level 1 397 Chapel Street South Yarra 3141.
