Community Collaboration Leads to Vibrant Mural Project in Cooktown

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Cook Shire Council, in partnership with Gungarde Aboriginal Corporation and Cooktown Community District Centre, recently spearheaded a creative initiative to breathe new life into the John Street Oval clubhouse. The aim? To foster a sense of belonging among local youth by involving them in the creation of vibrant murals adorning the clubhouse walls.

The project, which unfolded as part of our April School Holiday Program, saw the convergence of various stakeholders dedicated to empowering the youth of Cooktown. With the invaluable expertise of art therapist and educator, Robyn Robinson of Kajeet Art Therapy, local youth embarked on a journey of creativity and self-expression. Robyn's extensive experience in working with disengaged youth made her the perfect guide for this transformative endeavor.

Prior to the mural painting, Robyn engaged with students from local high schools during Term 1 of 2024, collaborating to design three unique murals that would encapsulate the essence of Cooktown. The Cooktown District Youth Association generously offered their youth center, affectionately known as 'The Block,' as the venue for the artistic endeavor. Here, amidst a backdrop of lively music and camaraderie, young artists poured their hearts into the creation of the murals, each panel radiating with the vibrancy of youth culture.

The murals, adorned with iconic Cooktown imagery such as crocodiles and the wharf, are not merely decorative; they serve as a testament to the creativity and talent of Cooktown's youth. These artworks will be showcased during the upcoming Discovery Festival on Charlotte Street, allowing the broader community to admire and appreciate the fruits of this collaborative effort.

Key stakeholders, including Cook Shire Council, Gungarde Aboriginal Corporation, Cooktown District Community Centre, Cooktown District Youth Association, Cooktown PCYC, and My Pathways, joined forces to make this project a resounding success. Their unwavering commitment to nurturing the potential of Cooktown's youth is truly commendable and serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared vision.

As the colorful murals find their permanent home, they will stand as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and community spirit in fostering a brighter future for Cooktown.