GoTransit’s official Reconciliation Artwork, Connections to Country by Aunty Bridgette Chilli, was unveiled today on Jhdungah Country within the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi Nation. This powerful piece maps ancient songlines and sacred sites, celebrating the enduring connection between land, people, and culture. As the artwork travels across Australia on GoTransit buses, it carries with it a living story of reconciliation, respect and shared journey.
On Jhdungah Country, within the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi Nation, something truly significant was unveiled. Not just a painting, but a living document; a map. GoTransit Media Group is honoured to share “Connections to Country,” our official Reconciliation Artwork created by Traditional Owner and celebrated artist Aunty Bridgette Chilli.
This extraordinary piece marks a meaningful step forward in our reconciliation journey. It celebrates truth-telling, acknowledges enduring cultural connections, and serves as a powerful reminder that the places we travel through every day are rich with ancient stories, sacred sites, and living legacies.
A Moment of Cultural Significance
The unveiling took place at La Balsa Park, where we gathered on Jhdungah Country with deep respect for the traditional custodians of this land, the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi people.
We were privileged to be joined by an incredible group of community leaders and reconciliation champions:
- Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
- Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Sunshine Coast Council
- Erin Lang, CEO of Reconciliation Queensland
- Loreman Mack Muckan, from Undumbi Culture
- Keely Abbot, Sunshine Coast Manager at Kinetic
- Sarah and Jason, representing the QLD Bus and Coach Industry Council
- Skye Staniford, of Golden Virtues Catering and Events
- And of course, the GoTransit Media Group team, who were proud to be part of this milestone.
The energy of the day was one of reflection, learning, connection, and above all, gratitude.
Meet the Artist: Aunty Bridgette Chilli
The heart and soul of this artwork belong to Aunty Bridgette Chilli, a proud Murulla Jhdungah woman, part of the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi Nation. Aunty Bridgette is a cultural storyteller, knowledge keeper, and mentor to future generations.
Raised by her Grandmother, Aunty Bridgette’s connection to culture is strong and unwavering. She continues to practise and share knowledge of language, medicine, traditional healing, and art. Over the past two decades, her works have found homes in private collections across the globe. Her greatest inspiration is sharing her knowledge to empower future generations to learn, understand, and protect our land, sea and sky. As part of her commitment to reconciliation, the art she creates helps to bridge the gap.
“We all share Country now, and caring for Country is everyone’s business.” – Aunty Bridgette Chilli
The Story Behind the Painting
Titled “Connections to Country,” this stunning work is an aerial map of Jhdungah Country specifically the area now known as the Sunshine Coast. At its centre is the Mooloolah River, which Aunty Bridgette refers to as Blood Water; a sacred songline and lifeblood of the Murulla people.
“My old grandmothers… my great, great, great, great grandmothers, the women… actually sang life into this river. All connecting to the ancient ancestors in the stars. This also flows out to Sea Country.” – Aunty Bridgette
More than a visual piece, “Connections to Country” is what Aunty Bridgette calls a living document. It carries with it the pathways, wisdom, and cultural knowledge passed through generations. It is a map not just of place, but of memory, meaning and belonging.
This artwork is a gift. A message. A call to walk with awareness and respect.
A Story That Travels
Crafted using acrylic on Belgian linen, the painting is a fusion of contemporary materials and timeless knowledge.
The original canvas will now be proudly displayed at GoTransit’s Head Office as a daily reminder of our responsibility to Country and community. But the story doesn’t stop there.
In a powerful extension of this partnership, a digital version of the artwork will travel Australia, wrapped on GoTransit buses. This ensures the story lives not only on the wall but also on the road, sparking curiosity and conversation in towns, cities, and communities far and wide.
This mobile artwork becomes a literal and symbolic vehicle for reconciliation showing that culture and connection are not static. They move with us.
Our Commitment to Reconciliation
At GoTransit, we don’t see reconciliation as a checkbox. We see it as a shared responsibility and an evolving journey.
We are honoured that Aunty Bridgette has entrusted us with this story and this artwork. “Connections to Country” is now part of our everyday movement. It travels with us, sparks reflection, and brings visibility to the cultures and communities that have always been here and always will be.
This painting will travel with us, starting conversations, strengthening understanding, and uniting communities.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we operate, and in particular the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi people. We pay deep respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples across Australia.
Learn More
Explore the full story behind the artwork and our reconciliation journey:
🔗 https://gotransit.com.au/gotransits-official-reconciliation-artwork
Let’s keep moving forward, together.
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