Maitland Council Clash Over Jocko Graves Statue

Artist Osvaldo Budet's exhibition at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery examines the historic "Jocko Graves" hitching post, which he describes as a racist object preserved through nostalgia and local heritage. The show, part of the gallery's "Upriver Downriver" series, invites public debate about the statue’s meaning and impact.

Maitland City Council responded by erecting a sign inside the gallery stating the display may offend community members who value the iconic statue. Mayor Philip Penfold publicly defended the monument, posting "Jocko Will Remain" on social media and urging the council to express disappointment with the exhibition. NSW Galleries and Museums CEO Brett Adlington warned that elected officials entering the curatorial realm is "dangerous territory" and emphasized the role of curatorial staff in managing exhibitions.