Two Central Coast icons have been recognised among the State Government’s 16 new blue plaque recipients, each revealing remarkable stories that have shaped the state’s rich history.
Malcolm Cole was a trailblazer for the Indigenous community, racking up an impressive series of ‘firsts’ in both the Arts and queer activism spaces.
He was a founding student of the Black Theatre in Redfern, a teacher and counsellor at the Aboriginal Dance Theatre and one of the first co-presenters of the ABC TV Indigenous current affairs show Blackout.
He also had a starring role in the first Aboriginal float entry in Sydney’s annual Mardi Gras parade in 1988.
Cole was a key player in the precursors of the NAISDA Dance College at Kariong, Australia’s leading performing arts training organisation specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Another ‘local hero’ honoured was the Introduction of Weet-Bix to Australia which won the inaugural People’s Choice blue plaque.
Receiving the most votes, the popular breakfast cereal – manufactured at Berkeley Vale – has become an iconic part of Australian culture.
Chosen from 184 public nominations received through the third nomination round and public votes in the People’s Choice, these new plaques join 49 blue plaques already announced, from Waverly to Wagga Wagga, Beecroft to Broken Hill.
All nominations are assessed by Heritage NSW and independent historians.
The exact location of the plaques will be determined in the coming months.
“These new blue plaques represent a vibrant mix of stories,” Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe said.
“From fearless activists and trailblazers to events that unite us all, these plaques capture the diverse people and moments that have woven NSW’s unique heritage.
“I encourage everyone to go out and see our state’s blue plaques, whether you’re exploring the Central Coast or travelling further afield.”
Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said he was very proud to see two Central Coast icons honoured with blue plaques which highlight the significance of their contributions to the region’s heritage.
“Malcolm Cole was a trailblazer whose impact on the arts and queer activism continues to inspire today,” Harris said.
“His legacy as a performer, educator, and advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices is something the Central Coast can be immensely proud of.
“Weet-Bix is a quintessential part of Australian culture, and I’m thrilled its Berkeley Vale production facility has been recognised with the inaugural People’s Choice blue plaque.”
Member for The Entrance David Mehan said the Central Coast was well represented in the latest round of blue plaques, which will encourage locals and visitors to stop and learn more about the history and heritage of the region.
“Weet-Bix is manufactured right here in Berkeley Vale, so it’s great to see this locally-made iconic breakfast cereal honoured,” he said.
For more information visit blueplaques.nsw.gov.au
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