A traditional Gubbi Gubbi possum coat created by a group of artists took centre stage at the Cooran Hall on the weekend, joining exhibitions held throughout the village as part of the annual Tall Trees Art Exhibition.
Melinda Serico said she sought advice from her father, Aboriginal Elder Uncle Nurden Serico, about possum coats and further research through the State Library and historic newspaper articles confirmed possum coats had been made and worn by Gubbi Gubbi people.
Melinda said the coat was made using 24 possum skins acquired from New Zealand where the animals are considered pests.
Over six months, artists adorned the skins with paintings before the coat was assembled. The possum coat was displayed among other artworks in the hall and across the village.
Visitors flocked to the hinterland town for the exhibition to see the art and engage with artists as well as visit the shops and eateries.
