In the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities particularly, there is a special respect for woman, who more often than not have been instrumental in the passing down of culture. 

The theme of NAIDOC Week 2018 is ‘because of her, we can’ and recognises the strength, resilience and passion of indigenous women. 

Some of the Shoalhaven’s most influential Aboriginal women have been recognised this NAIDOC Week thanks to artist Leigh Hooker. 

A mural depicting Aunty Marie Stewart, Aunty June Grundy and Aunty Wendy Brown was painted on the facade of Waminda’s Dead or Deadly site on Plunkett Street as part of this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations. 

While just three women have been painted on the building so far, the aim is to eventually have a number of women painted right around the building. 

Waminda’s Dead or Deadly staff said the purpose of the portraits was to thank Aboriginal women for their achievements, strength and empowerment that has been passed down through generations.