Hansard debates

Ms SHEED (Shepparton) — Yesterday I was privileged to attend the official launch of Shepparton's first Aboriginal street art mural, which is a collaborative project between Greater Shepparton City Council, artist Matt Adnate, Rumbalara cooperative, Yorta Yorta nation and Goulburn Valley Water. It was an inspiring event that pays tribute to two heroic community leaders who worked endlessly not only for the rights of Aboriginal people but also for the betterment of humanity and their own communities.

Pastor Sir Doug Nicholls and William Cooper have been recognised and honoured in a spectacular mural in the heart of Shepparton. Nathan Lovett-Murray, prominent AFL footballer and great-grandson of Pastor Sir Doug Nicholls, gave a fitting speech detailing his great-grandfather's triumphs. Lovett-Murray recalled his great-grandad's wise words and recited one of his most profound quotes:

You can play a tune on black keys, you can play a tune on white keys, but both are needed for perfect harmony.

This week the AFL community celebrates the life and achievements of Sir Doug in an annual round it has named in his honour.

William Cooper's life achievements, like Sir Doug's, are too numerous to mention, but what must be said is that his relentless activism and advocacy for human rights and his own Aboriginal community is widely recognised.

It was an honour to be in attendance at what was really a watershed event for Shepparton and our region, along with the descendants of these two extraordinary Yorta Yorta men and with many Aboriginal representatives from across Victoria.