Main Roads South West Region celebrated a new initiative that brings culture and safety together through the design of hi-vis shirts featuring artwork by Maarakool Art.

The shirts, which have already received overwhelmingly positive feedback, showcase vibrant artwork designed by Aboriginal artist Mel Spillman (Woods), while maintaining the high visibility required for safety on-site.

Feedback from staff across the region has been enthusiastic:

• “What a great initiative.”
• “Love the artwork and shirts.”
• “OMG, too deadly—I love it!”
• “It’s so good to finally see Aboriginal artwork on something like hi-vis.”
• “Love that Main Roads is showcasing local art in such a visible way.”
• “The colours really stand out—they look amazing on site.”
• “That’s such a great way to share culture and keep people safe at the same time.”
• “These are the best hi-vis shirts I’ve ever seen.”
• “It makes me proud to see our culture represented at work.”
• “They’re not just work shirts, they tell a story.”
• “Even the kids think they’re cool!”

The positive response has gone beyond the South-West, with other Main Roads Regions arranging their own culturally inclusive hi-vis shirts.

This initiative demonstrates how safety gear can also be a vehicle for recognition, respect, and pride in Aboriginal culture.