At the start of 2023, St John the Baptist Catholic Primary School, Woy Woy unveiled a new Mural on the oval. The artwork was developed by local Central Coast artist, and Aboriginal Learning Support Assistant, Marilyn Fraser.

The concept for the artwork itself was created collaboratively when Kerry Power (CSBB Learning Partner- Catechesis 3-6) and Marilyn met back in 2018, to explore the dynamic link between Indigenous Spirituality and Christian Scripture.

Marilyn’s original artwork incorporates her talents in bringing to life rich indigenous symbols, as well as understanding the story of the “Road to Emmaus”. In this scripture, two disciples are walking away from Jerusalem following the crucifixion of their beloved leader, Jesus. Filled with sorrow, they meet a stranger on their path who asks why they are sad. They ask the stranger to stay with them, to join in prayer and break bread when they reach Emmaus. The disciples soon realise the stranger is Jesus resurrected, and they return to Jerusalem, filled with joy, to tell others about their encounter.

This journey is brought to life in the footprints and meeting places within the art, “As you gaze at the artwork you can understand the story with depth and meaning, with little reference to the written scripture needed.” Kerry Power, CSBB Learning Partner said.

“The artwork brings new life and energy to our oval. SJB students have been taking time to admire and reflect on the mural and its meaning throughout this Term” Principal, Nicole Davies added.

St John the Baptist Catholic Primary School acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we gather, the Guringai and Darkinjung people.

We recognise their continued custodianship and connection to the land, water and community. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging and we extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. May we walk gently on their land.