GoTransit has unveiled powerful new artwork by respected Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi elder and artist Aunty Bridgette Chilli which has been created as a central part of the company’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Aunty Bridgette Chilli has been painting for over 20 years and her artwork can be found in private collections around the world.
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,” Bridgette said.
In recognition of its importance, the artwork will be featured on a GoTransit signature megaside — a bus-sized mobile canvas. Embedded is a QR code where people can learn more about the artist and her artwork.
GoTransit executive general manager Andrea Coles said the artwork would hold pride of place at the company’s Maroochydore headquarters.
“This artwork proudly boasts our Reconciliation Action Plan journey where we have worked together as a business to create a better understanding of the rich and diverse cultural history of our indigenous people,” Andrea said.
“The artwork is stunning but it’s more than a visual centrepiece, it is a deeply personal songline created by respected local elder Bridgette Chilli that speaks to the indigenous connection across generations, cultures and journeys.
“In commissioning this piece, we weren’t just looking for a beautiful image. We wanted a story, a message of connection to country, culture, people, and pathways. Aunty Bridgette Chilli’s work is exactly that. It took her three months to complete, and the result is something that speaks deeply to who we are and where we are going as we work towards building stronger, more meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she was looking forward to seeing one of this region’s most respected elders’ artwork transformed.
“I’ve known Aunty Bridgette Chilli for many years and this Connections to Country piece exemplifies her passion for sharing her knowledge and inspiring our future generations to learn and connect with land, sea and sky,” Mayor Natoli said.
GoTransit Reconciliation Action Plan working group chair, Paula Kerr, said the organisation is deeply committed to the process of reconciliation in a truly meaningful way.
“Since the formation of our RAP Working Group in early 2025, we have undertaken a range of initiatives to grow our cultural understanding, including collaborative workshops as well as a recent visit to the Ration Shed Museum in Cherbourg, the largest Aboriginal community in South East Queensland,” Paula said.
“Our RAP Working Group is made up of eight foundation members from Queensland and the Northern Territory, this reflects our commitment to understanding and inclusion across every region where we operate nationally.”
Hon Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships performed the official unveiling at a ceremony which included a Welcome to Country, traditional dancing, and bushfood native pantry tasting plates by Golden Virtues Catering & Events.
