Queensland Cricket has unveiled a powerful piece of artwork that celebrates the rich Indigenous history of the region and pays tribute to one of the sport’s pioneering Aboriginal players. The artwork, a collaborative effort between Queensland Fire player Mikayla Hinkley and Brisbane artist Delores McDonald (“Aunty Delly”), serves as a visual representation of connection to Country and a lasting acknowledgement of First Nations contributions to cricket in Queensland. This initiative underscores a growing trend within Australian sport to recognize and celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage.
The artwork isn’t simply decorative; it’s deeply symbolic. The central circle within the design represents the iconic Gabba stadium, a focal point for cricket in the state. Surrounding this central image are depictions of waterholes that historically existed near the ground, acknowledging the traditional custodianship of the land. This visual storytelling aims to connect the present-day game with its deep historical roots and the enduring connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to the land.
Perhaps the most poignant element of the artwork is the inclusion of 87 black strokes on red earth. These strokes are a direct tribute to Eddie Gilbert, an Aboriginal cricketer who achieved remarkable success for Queensland in the 1930s. Gilbert played 23 first-class matches for Queensland between 1931 and 1938, taking 87 wickets. His story, often overlooked for many years, is now being rightfully celebrated as a significant part of Australian cricket history. Further details about Eddie Gilbert’s career can be found on Wikipedia.
Mikayla Hinkley, a proud Kunja woman and current player for the Queensland Fire, played a crucial role in bringing the artwork to life. Her involvement ensures that the representation of Indigenous culture is authentic and respectful. Working alongside Aunty Delly, a respected Brisbane Indigenous artist, Hinkley helped translate the stories and significance of the land into a visually compelling piece. The collaboration highlights the importance of Indigenous voices in shaping the narrative around Indigenous heritage within the sport.
Recognising Elders and Traditional Custodians
Queensland Cricket’s acknowledgement extends beyond the artwork itself. The organisation publicly acknowledges and pays respect to First Nations people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where they operate. This commitment includes recognizing and celebrating the spiritual and ongoing connection to culture and country, and respectfully acknowledging all elders – past, present, and emerging – as sources of wisdom and guidance. Common Ground provides a guide for respectfully communicating with Elders, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse protocols within First Nations communities.
The concept of an “Elder” within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture is a deeply respected position, signifying someone who has earned recognition as a custodian of knowledge and lore, with permission to share that knowledge. Elders provide guidance, counselling, and support to their communities, tackling issues related to health, education, and cultural preservation. They play a vital role in maintaining cultural traditions, languages, and stories. More information about the role of Australian Aboriginal Elders can be found on Wikipedia.
This artwork and the accompanying acknowledgement represent a significant step forward for Queensland Cricket in its reconciliation journey. It’s a visible demonstration of respect for Indigenous culture and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment within the sport. The initiative serves as a model for other sporting organizations looking to meaningfully engage with and celebrate Indigenous heritage.
Looking ahead, Queensland Cricket will continue to work with First Nations communities to identify further opportunities for collaboration and reconciliation. The organization’s ongoing commitment to acknowledging and celebrating Indigenous culture will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of cricket in Queensland. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this important initiative and to learn more about the rich history and culture of First Nations people in Australia.
