HEYWOOD’S water tower war memorial had its grand opening on Wednesday,

The mural, dedicated to Gunditjmara servicemen and women in the South West, ensures First Nations’ peoples part in Australia's war history is honoured for generations to come.

The mural depicts Gunditjmara brothers, Privates Herbert, Frederick, Edward and Leonard Lovett who enlisted and served in the first and second world wars.

There were 13 members of the Lovett family that served in both world wars.

Captain Reginald Saunders – a Purnim man who was the first Aboriginal Australian to be commissioned as an officer in the Australian Army – also features in the artwork.

Private Herbert Lovett is the great-grandfather of local artist Tom Day who alongside Levi Geebung, returned home to Gunditjmara Country to help paint the 30-metre-high mural with internationally acclaimed street artist Matt Adnate.

The mural was delivered by Leadership Great South Coast 2020 alumni Troy Lovett, Emily Falla, Craig Kelson and Jason Van Der Heyden and supported by the State Government’s Stronger Regional Communities Program.

The Indigenous war memorial mural aims to encourage truth telling and empower the community to honour and acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by Indigenous service men and women.

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green said the mural was a great asset to the Heywood community.

“This memorial is significant to the community as it recognises the remarkable acts of Gunditjmara service men and women,” she said.

“This artwork will make sure the history and stories of the Gunditjmara people are honoured for years to come.

“The water tower, along with the World Heritage listed Budj Bim, really cement Heywood’s commitment to its Indigenous community.”

Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation ranger Aaron Morgan aid the project was a step in recpgnition for Gunditjmara.

“It is something that will open up very important conversations,” he said.