The stunning artworks, now a permanent fixture in the school grounds, were shown for the first time at a special assembly last Wednesday with local Aboriginal elders in attendance.

The murals marry Aboriginal art with contemporary design elements and were painted by both indigenous and non-indigenous students over an intensive five-day period, under the guidance of Greater Taree City Council youth officer Graeme Kellner.

Speaking to the school assembly, Mr Kellner said it is the responsibility of all Australians, both black and white, to preserve Aboriginal culture and history.

“It is important to take ownership of these murals because it makes you a working part of protecting this great culture,” Mr Kellner told the assembly.

“It was an honour to work with these students and to see their dedication.”

Deputy principal Veronica Amato was impressed with the finished products.

“One of our school’s core values is respect,” she said.

“These murals are about respect for our land, respect for each other and respect for our future. What better representation of our future could we have than what is now hanging on our walls?”

School captain Caitlin Williams called it an “historic day in the life of the Wingham community”.

“This has been an exciting project for all students and staff involved,” she said.

The murals are part of the school’s Aboriginal project, which aimed to increase the understanding and appreciation of the history and culture of the Biripi people in the Wingham area.

The project consisted of two parts: the Aboriginal murals and an historical booklet, researched and written by the students.

The booklet was initiated by students listening to stories from local Aborigine Uncle Phil Saunders.

After undertaking further research, year 10 students wrote the booklet, with the assistance of teachers Mr Harrell and Ms McPhan.

The booklet will now be published and placed in Wingham High School and all local primary schools.

The school received funding from the Department of Education and Training to complete the project.