An O'Connor bus stop has become a vibrant symbol of unity and hope thanks to the creative vision of Year 6 student Noah Yong, whose mural design now brightens one of the city's iconic public spaces.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Suzanne Orr, today met with Noah and Wiradjuri artist Kalara Gilbert who brought the mural to life, to hear how it reflects Reconciliation in the Canberra community.
"This artwork symbolises Reconciliation by placing First Nations people at the heart of Australia and embracing its diverse communities," Minister Orr said.
"Reconciliation is a collective effort, and by displaying this artwork on a public bus shelter, we can continue that conversation and reflect on reconciliation every day. This bus shelter represents the ongoing journey of reconciliation."
The mural was designed by Noah Yong, a student at Turner Primary School. The entire school participated in the 2025 Reconciliation Day poster competition, with two of Noah's classmates placing second and third. With the bus stop close to the school, students will pass by the shelter and their classmate's artwork each day.
This is the second bus stop in Canberra to be painted in honour of Reconciliation Day.
Quotes attributable to Noah Yong, Turner Primary Student:
"My artwork represents the country, water, fauna, and community. The centre shows First Nations people holding Australia, which includes all the different communities of Aboriginal Australia – this links with the 2025 Reconciliation Day theme 'Bridging Now to Next'.
"The equal placement of the Aboriginal and Australian flags reflects unity and respect, while the Aboriginal flag's precedence acknowledges Indigenous peoples as the land's First Custodians"
Quotes attributable to Kalara Gilbert, Wiradjuri Artist:
"The surrounding patterns I've painted represent the journey for justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."
Quotes attributable to Selina Walker, Co-Chair, ACT Reconciliation Council:
"Reconciliation can happen in many ways, and art is a powerful prompt for reflection and conversation as we bridge now to next. This artwork holds strong our identity and helps foster meaningful conversations that move us towards true reconciliation. It's wonderful to see so many young people entering this competition and creating art that reflects their journey and our community."
