Melbourne Polytechnic launches Uncle Jack Charles’ Place of Belonging
Content advisory: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this post contains images and references to a deceased person.
On Friday 31 July, Melbourne Polytechnic proudly welcomed community members, students, staff and special guests to Collingwood campus for the launch of Uncle Jack Charles’ Place of Belonging.
The event honoured the life, legacy and vision of the late Uncle Jack Charles, a Collingwood icon with an enduring contribution to First Nations’ culture and advocacy.
As a consultant on the Collingwood campus redesign project, Uncle Jack Charles envisioned a dedicated space where people could come together to connect with culture, community and one another. He imagined a place where stories could be shared, identities celebrated, and everyone could feel seen, respected and valued.
Melbourne Polytechnic is proud to help bring Uncle Jack’s vision to life and was honoured to mark the occasion alongside his family and friends, including nephew David Charles and former manager Patrice Capogreco.
The event also featured the unveiling of two glass artworks honouring Uncle Jack Charles created by former student and glass artist Nadine Keegan, and glass artist, graduate, First Nations teacher and proud Yorta Yorta and Pairrebeenne/Trawlwoolway clan man Rickie Gugumah Martin.
Guests enjoyed a Welcome to Country by Colin Hunter Jnr Jnr, performances by Uncle Kutcha Edwards and Jay Jarome, reflections from Patrice Capogreco and David Charles, and a Corroboree performed by Jason Tamiru.
Melbourne Polytechnic Chief Executive, Frances Coppolillo said: “While these artworks celebrate Uncle Jack's life and contribution, they also serve a broader purpose. They are part of our commitment to ensuring that First Nations culture, stories and perspectives are visibly recognised across our campuses and built environments.
My hope is that the Uncle Jack Charles Place of Belonging becomes a space filled with connection, learning, pride and community. A place where people know they belong, and where Uncle Jack continues to inspire future generations.”