Chosen from a list of impressive entries submitted across the Diocese, the student-created artwork was described as a standout by the selection panel, chosen for its powerful reflection of the Assembly’s theme and deep cultural and spiritual symbolism.
Aunty Louise Campbell, Chair of the NSW AICC (Aboriginal and Islander Catholic Council), addressed the students during a presentation ceremony at the College, commending the students for their “outstanding piece” and for contributing meaningfully to an event that unites Aboriginal Catholics from across the country.
“This artwork beautifully complements the theme of the 2025 Assembly and the 2025 Jubilee Year; “Pilgrims of Hope,” Aunty Louise shared.
“It will help share the story and spirit of Aboriginal Catholics in a way that is authentic, creative, and deeply rooted in culture.”
The artwork will feature prominently throughout the Assembly—appearing on the national NATSICC webpage, official programs, and Assembly merchandise, including T-shirts. It will also be displayed alongside all submitted entries to celebrate the incredible talent within the Diocese at the Assembly being held at Rydge’s Hunter Valley from Monday 29 September through to Friday 3 October.
During the presentation, students Tilly Moore and Wirikah Knox were presented with a framed copy of their final piece. A larger canvas will be gifted to the school following the Assembly, in recognition of their creative contribution by the NATSICC Board.
Tilly and Wirikah who were supported by their families at the presentation, spoke humbly about the process.
“We used different symbols to connect Aboriginal art with our Catholic faith,” Tilly explained.
“Fire represents Pope Francis’ call to ‘fan the flame of hope.’ The footsteps symbolise the local Worimi people walking with God, and the cross represents our shared Catholic identity.”
The students, close friends, collaborated by combining their individual artistic strengths to create a unified and meaningful piece of art.
Their efforts were praised by Assistant Principal Claudette Stace, who emphasised the significance of their leadership.
“As senior students, your work is an inspiration,” Claudette said.
“You are visibly shaping the culture of Catherine McAuley College—standing proud in your identity and showing future students what it means to honour both culture and faith.”
Leah Nowlan, the College’s Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education Teacher and involved in supporting the submission, shared that the piece was inspired by a significant Worimi Dreaming story – The Creation of the Worimi Conservation Lands. The story of the Worimi people—shaped by the forces of Malu, the storm spirit, Wooramah, the wind spirit, Garauh, the sea spirit, and Jookin, the sun spirit—speaks to the profound interconnectedness between the land, sea, and sky. Leah consulted local Elder, Uncle Leigh Ridgeway, President of the local AECG, who was supportive of the students strong tribute to the local Worimi people.
As preparations for the 2025 NATSICC Assembly continue, this remarkable artwork will not only serve as a symbol of unity and hope but also as a proud representation of the voices, stories, and faith of Aboriginal students from the Diocese.
The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is honoured to host the NATSICC Assembly gathering on the lands of the Wonnarua people at Rydge’s Hunter Valley from Monday 29 September to Friday 3 October 2025. With an active Youth Program, On Country Experiences and Keynote Speakers featuring Stan Grant, Bishop Tim Norton and local Toby Whaleboat, there is something for everyone!
Click here to find out more about the assembly.
Artwork Credit
IMAGE: Tilly Moore and Wirikah Knox, Catherine McAuley College MEDOWIE
TEXT: Paige Newton, St Jospeh’s Catholic College, LOCHINVAR
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