In memory of all Koories who have died of AIDS – Australian AIDS Memorial Quilt panel

Quilt panel, part of Australian AIDS Memorial Quilt, in memory of all those who have been affected by AIDS or who may be in the future., 'Survival, AIDS, Death', cotton / ink / paint, made by Koorie Fashion Class, Tuncurry / Forster TAFE, New South Wales, Australia, 1992 Rectangular quilt panel with landscape orientation on an unbacked, background divided into two halves, black on top and red underneath. A large yellow circle is in the centre. In the circle are large red letters - 'S', 'A' and 'D', machine appliqued in red. The following wording is in black hand printed letters: 'Survival - Aboriginals have survived / most diseases. We must teach / our children how to keep / on surviving and maintaining / good health.' 'AIDS - We all have to take precautions against / this terminal disease.' 'Death - This is the final result. / Prevention is our only / protection.' Surrounding the upper section of the yellow circle, is a decorated painted serpent machine appliqued in red. In each upper corner is a pair of crossed spears, one red and the other black. In each lower corner, is a group of black figures, three large and one small, holding hands, all outlined with white dots. In the lower right corner, In black hand printed letters, is the inscription 'FROM 'KOORI FASHION' TUNCURRY - FORSTER TAFE.' The information received with the quilt panel has a typed explanation for the panel, made to show "our concern for those affected and those who may be affected in the future" (quote). "We, The Koories of Forster and Tuncurry, are fortunate in that we don't have anyone with AIDS or know anyone who has died from this dreadful disease. However, we wished to make this panel to show our concern for all those who have been affected and who may be affected in the future. Our design is based on the Aboriginal Flag: the black representing Aboriginal people-past, present and future; the yellow is for the sun, the giver of life; and the red representing the earth of red ochre and our spiritual relationship with the land. The spears signify the battle against AIDS, while the figures holding hands are for all people of all races, caring and sharing the burden. The rainbow serpent is one of the best known creatures of Aboriginal legend noted for its power, and its link with creation. But it was also linked with destruction for if it was disturbed it would take revenge by initiating some kind of disaster. So this panel comes as a warning to our young folk and emphasises the need for them to be aware, to think deeply, and to follow a healthy lifestyle. It also expresses our sympathy for all those who have suffered directly from AIDS, no matter who they are. Koori Fashion Class Tuncurry/ Forster TAFE".