Royal Far West were honoured to gift two very special coolamons—one to Maxine Mackay, a proud Ngarrindjeri and Barkindji woman whose leadership strengthens the voices of her Bourke community, and one to Ms Leonie McCosker, First Nations Representative for Cobar.
A coolamon is a traditional Aboriginal carrying vessel made from wood or bark, used for transporting food, water, and even cradling babies. It holds deep cultural significance, symbolising community, care, and tradition.
Crafted by Peter Mackay, a proud Ngiyambaa man of the Wayilwan nation, these coolamons represent a journey of healing, hope, and heritage. Wrapped in the stunning Yiran Birrang (Long Journey) artwork by Wiradjuri artist Skye Burton, they tell stories of resilience, collaboration, and the bond between bush and beach.
In Cobar, Leonie gave a Welcome to Country, recognising the deep traditions of Ngiyampaa Wangaaypuwan Country, the lands of the Belah Tree People, Nelia Tree People, and Stone Country People—custodians of this sacred region.
During the gifting, Jacqui Emery, CEO of Royal Far West, reflected on our strong connection to Cobar. Riders visited the Cobar Museum, home to one of our historic railway carriages that used to deliver baby health clinics across western NSW. The carriage is a powerful reminder of our founders’ vision— “our feet in the sand and our hearts in the bush”.
The gifting in Bourke took place at Bourke Preschool, amid the announcement of a new funding agreement with Minderoo Foundation, ensuring the continuation of our successful cooperation with Bourke & District Children’s Services (BDCS). This meaningful moment was shared by Maxine Mackay, Royal Far West CEO Jacqui Emery, and BDCS Director Denise Toohey.
Through a traditional Smoking Ceremony, the coolamons were blessed before beginning their journey in 2025, carrying the stories and strength of the communities we serve.
We are deeply honoured to walk alongside First Nations communities, learning from their wisdom and working together to build a brighter future for regional families.
