A Redfern Station fire truck has been transformed into a vibrant canvas honouring Indigenous culture during Reconciliation Week. The distinctive artwork is a collaboration between First Nations FRNSW firefighters Muliyan Waters, Shawn Orcher, and Brodee Mate.
The reimagined fire engine will make its public debut tomorrow, June 1st, at the Sydney Swans Fan Day in Moore Park. Firefighters aim to use the truck’s eye-catching design to engage with the community and share important winter fire safety messages about smoke alarms and kitchen hazards.
“Gadigal is the country on which Redfern Fire Station responds and the community with which the crew engages, and each component of this piece reflects an aspect of our service,” explained Senior Firefighter Orcher.
He highlighted how the central circle represents the station as a meeting place, while the outer circles signify the four different staff shifts. The red and orange hues symbolise fire and FRNSW’s passionate commitment to the community.
FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell joined Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib to inspect the newly decorated truck as it reentered active duty.
“The terrific, colourful artwork can’t help but start positive conversations as the crews go about their work,” Commissioner Fewtrell stated.
Minister Dib praised the artwork’s intricate details carrying cultural significance, like the emu and kangaroo footprints representing the journeys of female and male firefighters, respectively.
“The variation of colours used for the crew represents Redfern being an eclectic melting pot of culture of all different races, Indigenous and non-Indigenous,” he explained.
As it rolls through the streets in the coming days, the vibrant fire truck artwork will undoubtedly turn heads and spark important discussions about Indigenous reconciliation.
Published 31-May-2024