Our Special Place

On Friday, 1 March at Our Holy Redeemer Primary School, we held the official launch of our new mural by artist, Shanai Kellet. The students and staff were provided with a comprehensive explanation of the symbolism and story conveyed by this special artwork. The title of the piece, Our Special Place, was the result of a workshopping exercise with our Year 6 students. 

The story of Our Special Place can be read here:

The mural captures our school motto ‘Grow, Learn, Succeed’. ‘Our Special Place’ celebrates the journey and steps taken throughout primary school. Guided by Christ, the nurturing staff, and a strong community presence, ‘Our Special Place’ celebrates the uplifting spirit of connection.

Nestled on top of the hills of Boroondara, where the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people have continuously cared for and nurtured the thickly shaded land, ‘Our Special Place’ teaches us to respect, protect and preserve the land and waterways for our future generations.

‘Our Special Place’ depicts a variety of blue, green, orange, yellow, and soft white shades to represent colours within the environment, changing seasons and landscapes throughout time. The central meeting place in blue represents our school, branching out to further coloured central gathering spaces of learning within classrooms. The long pathways on either side take us throughout our learning journey, with smaller gathering spaces reflecting areas within the school where, eating, sharing, playing, sport, church and learning opportunities are shared in peace and harmony with each other and our teachers.

Amongst the large hills are emu and kangaroo tracks, varied symbols of families and community, sacred waterholes, men and women symbols of children and staff, rockshaped patterns, yellow stars of Christ, and the repetition of dot work. These symbols represent the movement of our school, the environment and a strong connection to country and place.

A variety of traditional Yorta Yorta and Juru symbols alongside common Aboriginal symbols, transform our school’s story and the ongoing respect we have with our Aboriginal Culture.

Our Special Place shares a unique story of uplifting experiences for all, within a safe and nurturing learning environment. Filled with diversity, enthusiasm, and core values to encourage growth and strength for all students at Our Holy Redeemer Primary School.

By Nick Byrne, Deputy Principal

Published: 22 March 2024