First Nations Student Commission Success 

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Written By Nadia Chapman

A local First Nations student found success in a recent art commission for a Broncos NRLW player. 

Clontarf Beach State High School student, Jasmine Rogers recently created custom Indigenous Round boots for Broncos player, Lauren Dam.  

Clontarf Beach State High School Marketing Manager, Ziggie Biddle said that Jasmine was commissioned to hand-paint the boots for the Broncos Indigenous Round.  

“Jasmine is a proud Gubbi Gubbi and Gureng Gureng young woman, and the commission provided an opportunity to showcase her artistic talent while celebrating First Nations culture through storytelling,” Ziggie said. 

“The artwork tells Lauren Dam’s personal story and connection to Country. It represents two places that have shaped her journey.  

“Dubbo, where Lauren was born, is depicted through warm orange hills and a burning yellow sun, while Sawtell, where she grew up, is represented through flowing blue and green patterns that reflect the saltwater coastline.”

Celebrating Culture and Identity Through Sport

The NRLW Indigenous Round celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through massive contributions from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, recognising the importance of connection to Country through sport. 

“Storytelling is an important part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Indigenous art is a powerful way to share stories, celebrate identity, acknowledge connection to Country and pass on cultural knowledge,” Ziggie said. 

“The artwork on Lauren’s boots reflects these themes through a contemporary sporting platform.” 

Not only does the commission highlight the importance of Indigenous culture and art, but it also gives students the opportunity to showcase their talents and skills on a larger scale. 

“The commission highlights the opportunities available for students to apply their talents in authentic, real-world settings,” Ziggie said.  

“It also showcases the school’s commitment to celebrating First Nations cultures and supporting students to share their skills and creativity beyond the classroom.” 

Clontarf Beach State High School hopes that people realise the opportunities that students can have. 

“Jasmine’s commissioned artwork demonstrates how creativity, culture and sport can come together to tell meaningful stories. The project celebrates First Nations culture while highlighting the talent of Clontarf Beach State High School students and the opportunities available for them to showcase their skills beyond the classroom,” Ziggie said.

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