Yorta Yorta artist Brian Beckhurst has shared his talent with the GMCU office by donating three handmade paintings to complement the space.
As a long-term member of the bank, Mr Beckhurst said he wanted to thank the staff for their help over the years.
“I felt extremely proud and happy with my efforts and grateful for the opportunity to have my artwork displayed in a community I care so much for,” he said.
“But it’s also about being recognised as an Elder and to show the community my strong belief in my mob and culture.”
Each of Mr Beckhurst’s paintings tells a unique story about his connection to land.
“The middle red painting is the totem of the longneck turtle into the Dreamtime,” Mr Beckhurst said.
“The dots represent the turtle’s journey to water, and white means neutral, that all wildlife is welcome to drink the same water.
“Blue dots mean water and ochre dots represent the land and its safety.
“The black and blue painting is about mob Dreamtime.”
GMCU chief executive Ged Smith said it was a real tribute to the GMCU staff and their efforts to accommodate customers.
“The fact that Brian has recognised that, and in talking to Brian’s mum, Evelyn, they were both so impressed on how the team have looked after him over the years,” Mr Smith said.
“The talent Brian has put into (the paintings) is just stunning, and the fact he spent his time so generously is something we’re really impressed with.
“You often hear of people getting flowers, but for someone to take the time out to do a painting — that’s a bit more than buying flowers, and I think it’s really sweet he did that in recognition of the girls at the front counter.”
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