Traditional Owner Racquel Kerr said the mural of Akira was painted by international street artist Adnate as a gift to the previous tenants of the cafe which was situated in the building.

“Akira was chosen for the mural as she represents a young, strong, Dja Dja Wurrung woman,” Ms Kerr said. “It was a way to acknowledge Dja Dja Wurrung history, as well as the standing culture of 33,000 years, but also of the future.”

Ms Kerr said when the previous tenants left the cafe, Akira’s family requested the mural be removed.

“The previous tenants were Aboriginal and permission was given by Akira’s family to have the mural there as long as it was in Aboriginal care.”

The re-location process at the weekend included a smoking ceremony, by Ms Kerr, to thank the people of Trentham for their support.

Ms Kerr said the whole process was “really positive” and highlighted the process of education and acceptance rather than claiming ownership.

“The process paid respect and acknowledged the traditional owners of country as being the Dja Dja Wurrung people. The acceptance of Akira’s journey, including the smoking ceremony, was really beautiful and everybody was really understanding,” she said. “It was a really positive experience and I hope it builds a strong relationship with the Trentham community in the future.”

The mural will stay under Dja Dja Wurrung custodianship but it has not yet found a new home.

Trentham resident Helen Macdonald said the portrait had been widely appreciated by both residents and visitors alike and that everybody was sad to see it go.

Ms Macdonald said she was now approaching Hepburn Shire Council and the State Government to discuss funding to commission a new piece of community art.