Nyree (Ngari) Reynolds is an experienced artist who recently started working with local students.

Mayor Kathy Sajowitz is inviting the women of Oberon to join her for lunch on Thursday, March 8 to celebrate International Women’s Day, whose theme this year is “Press for progress”.

"As an Aboriginal woman of the Wiradjuri Nation, Nyree tells stories through her paintings, many of which feature Aboriginal children of the Stolen Generations blending into the landscape, their own country from which they were removed,” Cr Sajowitz said.

"Nyree tries to promote a new understanding of all people who have been taken away from family, home and country, highlighting that these are real people with real stories to be told." 

Ms Reynolds is a multi-award-winning visual artist whose work is in government and private collections in Australia.

She graduated from Charles Sturt University in 2015 with a Graduate Certificate in Wiradjuri Language, Culture and Heritage, which she says has enhanced her love of her “Belonging Country” and has inspired her to produce artworks showing this connection. 

"She firmly believes that anyone who wants to paint can and it is with this philosophy that she facilitates art workshops within TAFE colleges, with disadvantaged young people, schools, adults suffering from mental health issues and with local councils creating murals with the help of local children,” Cr Sajowitz said.

"Nyree’s recently completed painting for Blayney Shire Council will be displayed as a billboard on the Mid Western Highway welcoming people to Wiradjuri Country. 

"She has recently commenced work with Oberon students and has undertaken a project in collaboration with myself."

Tickets for the lunch are free and available to everyone.

"The event will be held at the Robert Hooper Community Centre and will commence at 12pm,” Cr Sajowitz said. 

“You can reserve a place by phoning Tamara Greenhalgh on 6329 8157.

“Because of the size of the venue we can only seat a certain number, so tickets will be on a first-come basis.

"There will be lucky door prizes and the proceeds from a raffle will sent to UNIFEM Australia as a donation from the women of Oberon to this year’s nominated charity.