A colourful new artwork by Birpai artist Jacinta Janik has been unveiled on a Port Macquarie-Hastings Council vessel, creating a highly visible celebration of First Nations culture, community and connection to Sea Country.

The vessel wrap forms part of the council's ongoing partnership with the Birpai community and supports the development of its Sea Country Action Plan, an initiative designed to strengthen environmental stewardship while recognising the cultural significance of local waterways to Traditional Owners.

Janik's design draws inspiration from the natural environment of the Mid North Coast, incorporating local marine life, native animals and traditional cultural elements that reflect the deep relationship between the Birpai people and the land and sea. The artwork is intended to tell a story of respect, sustainability and shared responsibility for protecting Country for future generations.

The artist said community played a central role in developing the design. She wanted the artwork to represent not only the beauty of the region but also the enduring cultural knowledge and values that have guided the Birpai people for thousands of years. Through vibrant colours and symbolic imagery, the vessel now serves as a moving canvas that showcases Indigenous culture throughout the Port Macquarie-Hastings waterways.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council said the project demonstrates its commitment to meaningful engagement with First Nations communities rather than symbolic recognition alone. By incorporating Indigenous artwork onto an operational council vessel, the organisation hopes to raise awareness of Birpai culture while promoting conversations about environmental care, cultural heritage and reconciliation.

The wrapped vessel will be used in council operations across local waterways, making the artwork visible to residents and visitors alike. Council representatives believe the project highlights how public infrastructure can be used to celebrate local identity and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the region.

The initiative has been welcomed by community members, who view it as an important example of collaboration between local government and First Nations artists. Projects such as this also provide opportunities for Indigenous artists to share their stories with a wider audience while strengthening cultural recognition across the region.

Janik has built a reputation for creating artworks that celebrate Birpai culture and local landscapes. Her work often combines traditional storytelling with contemporary artistic techniques, helping educate the community about Indigenous history and the continuing connection between First Nations peoples and Country.

Council officials said the vessel artwork is only one part of broader efforts to work alongside the Birpai community on environmental management and cultural initiatives. The Sea Country Action Plan is expected to guide future projects that integrate Indigenous knowledge into the protection and management of local waterways and coastal environments.

The unveiling marks another step towards recognising First Nations culture in public spaces while celebrating the rich heritage of the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. Through Janik's artwork, the council hopes to inspire greater appreciation of the area's natural environment and the longstanding cultural connections that continue to shape the community today.=-098+