A unique Geelong business is expressing Aboriginal culture through surprising mediums.
Based at North Geelong, Wathaurong Glass and Arts has developed a reputation for products that add a special element to private and commercial premises.
The staff use techniques including kiln-forming, sandblasting and other processes as deemed necessary to produce high-quality glass products reflecting local Indigenous culture.
Formed in 1998, the business takes great pride in producing unique Aboriginal artwork with a functional edge.
The products include window and door glass made to Australian standards, kitchen and bathroom splashbacks, artistic platters, bowls, corporate gifts, awards, trophies and much more.
Wathaurong Glass and Art also produces the AFL’s annual ‘Dreamtime at the G’ medal for the best player in the Richmond-versus-Essendon match at the MCG.
The company’s artistic products have also been presented as gifts to the Dalai Lama, South African statesman Nelson Mandela and supermodel Naomi Campbell.
All the staff at Wathaurong Glass and Arts are Aboriginal, working in a not-for-profit business under the auspices of the local Wathaurong co-operative. The company is structured so the Wathaurong and broader community are beneficiaries of any profit.
The Wathaurong, or wathawurrung or wada warrung, is a recognised tribe comprising 25 groups, or clans.
The Wathaurong’s boundaries stretch from Geelong, north to the Werribee River, north-west to Bacchus Marsh, south-west to Cressy, south-east to Colac, east to Lorne and encompassing the Bellarine Peninsula.
More information about Wathaurong Glass and Art, including its products and online sales, is available at wathaurongglass.com.au or by visiting its premises at Rodney Road.
