Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT is committed to actively participating in Australia’s journey to reconciliation and acknowledging our country’s history. We are embarking on the beginning of our reconciliation journey by developing a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Many of our grant recipients and people living in the communities our events travel through identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The RAP process will enable us to further understand and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures and provide a framework to develop a more informed and culturally respectful way of working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities.
What is a Reconciliation Action Plan?
The development of Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT’s Reflect RAP is the first step in our commitment to ensuring our decisions have a positive impact on all people living in Australia, with a specific focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Our Reflect RAP helps us, as an organisation, prepare to engage in reconciliation meaningfully while engaging all employees, board members and stakeholders to understand the importance of reconciliation.
Leonora District High School on the 2023 Variety B to B Bash. Photo by ZOOM Photography.
Coonamble Public School on the 2024 Variety B to B Bash. Photo by ZOOM Photography.
Meekatharra District High School on the 2023 Variety B to B Bash. Photo by ZOOM Photography.
As this is our first RAP, we have established a RAP working group to support its implementation. Our working group includes our CEO and RAP Champion, independent guidance from Warami Consultancy and representatives from across the business.
We are grateful to have partnered with Warami Consultancy, who have been instrumental in guiding us through the early stages of our Reconciliation journey here at Variety. Their expertise has ensured that the development of our RAP is conducted in a manner that is respectful and inclusive. They have shared invaluable insights into cultural protocols and practices, emphasising the significance of language and helping us review and update our policies to be more culturally sensitive. In addition, Warami Consultancy has provided essential introductions and advice regarding cultural training programs and facilitated our engagement with local artists and educators.
“The Reflect RAP provides us with a framework, empowering us to take steps towards reconciliation. Through our RAP, we aim to foster meaningful relationships, promote cultural awareness and understanding, and contribute to the reconciliation process in tangible ways that will facilitate our own growth and understanding.”
Tony Warner, CEO of Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT
Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT Story Artwork
We had the privilege of collaborating with Nathan Peckham, who generously shared his stories and culture with us through his art. The Variety team participated in a workshop where Nathan demonstrated various techniques that bring his artwork to life. Through this creative exchange, we shared Variety’s story, which Nathan beautifully wove into the artwork he created for us, reflecting both our journey and his cultural heritage.
Nathan leans upon the teachings of his Elders and chains them to a rich mixture of modern media and methods to give life to his unique brand of artwork and design. Nathan endeavours to reach his audience by showcasing the many the many facets of Australia’s rich indigenous culture and, in particular, the depth of the culture specific to the Dubbo region which is his ancestral home.
Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT Story Artwork by Nathan Peckham
A Celebration of Diversity
The top section bursts with colour, symbolizing the vibrant communities Variety serves across NSW and ACT. The changing hues represent this diversity, while the smaller figures, flanked by their peers, highlight the importance of guidance and support for our children to thrive.
Landscapes of Change
The middle section showcases the diverse landscapes Variety encounters. The changing landforms in each panel reflect this variety. The transition from night to day acts as a metaphor for the positive impact Variety brings – brighter days for children. This theme of transformation continues throughout the artwork, with the colour palette shifting from blue and indigo to a hopeful orange.
The Hands that Shape Lives
The third section represents Variety’s dedicated staff and volunteers. The handprints signify the collective effort of every member in leaving a lasting impression on the lives of children.
The River of Life
The bottom section depicts a mighty river, a common symbol used to represent life’s journey. Just like the river Wambool, life can be turbulent or tranquil, abundant or barren. The message here is one of hope: even in dry times, the river will eventually flow again, signifying positive change around the bend.
The Symbol of Hope
Finally, the majestic rosella, its feathers ablaze with Variety’s signature red, takes flight. This magnificent bird embodies the unwavering hope that Variety brings.
