House debates

Thursday, 29 May 2014

Statements by Members

Merrepen Arts

1:40 pm

Photo of Natasha GriggsNatasha Griggs (Solomon, Country Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I rise to pay tribute to yet another fantastic Northern Territory organisation, Merrepen Arts. Merrepen Arts produce fantastic and unique Indigenous textiles that are sold for various uses around the Territory and indeed nationally. I was introduced to Merrepen Arts by Raw Cloth, another wonderful organisation. I wear many of their designs; in fact, I am wearing one of those designs right now. This design is called Frog Dreaming.

I am a fierce champion of Merrepen and, during the recent visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, I was able to present them with a number of pieces of fabric that were designed by Merrepen. The Duchess was very impressed with them. I hope that, when she returns to Australia and visits the Northern Territory again, she might be wearing a dress made from Merrepen fabric.

This weekend is the annual Merrepen Arts Festival, held at the Daly River. Unfortunately, due to my electoral commitments I will not be able to attend, but I wish Liz Bott and her team the very best for the weekend. Liz Bott is a strong advocate for Merrepen, and I know that she will put on a spectacular weekend.

Territorians may want to keep an eye out for more on these fabulous Indigenous textiles, because the ABC will tomorrow night be showcasing this wonderful product. (Time expired)