Paper stars for a real result

LOCALS have been busy weaving 10,000 paper stars for the global One Million Stars to End Violence installation that will become part of the worldwide initiative to raise awareness of violence against women.
One Million Stars founder Maryann Talia Pau will visit Noosa for the launch of the installation by the Sunshine Coast Star Weave community who will display their 10,000 handmade stars at the Noosa Civic Shopping Centre for three weeks from 4 October.
Maryann is a practising weaver, artist and designer and she will hold a free star weaving workshop at the Noosa Civic Centre on Wednesday 5 October following the official launch of the installation at 10.30am.
Born in Apia, Samoa, Maryann Talia Pau grew up in New Zealand and has recently moved to Brisbane with her family after developing her art and work in Melbourne.
“When I weave, whether it’s with materials, words or ideas, I imagine my ancestors – their humour, wisdom and mischief and how this can inform my identity as an Australian with roots in Samoa,” she said.
With these values, Maryann has inspired thousands of people worldwide to contribute to the One Million Stars project and to remind everyone they can do something about violence and to find a collective voice to speak out against violence.
Stars from all over the world will come together in one spectacular installation at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018).
Co-organiser of the local star community Bernice Childs said after the installation at Noosa Civic was dismantled, the 10,000 stars would be sent on to contribute to the one million stars on the Gold Coast.
“We have been delighted in the way local residents have embraced the project and we are so pleased to have such a lovely venue for the display,” she said.
“Everyone is invited to join us for the launch when Superintendent Darryl Johnson from the Queensland Police Service will speak.”
The installation will be on display for three weeks and there will be a second free workshop on Friday 7 October for anyone missing out on the Wednesday workshop and launch.