Gordana Kotevski Mural – Cardiff Shopping Centre

By hmcadmin | July 8, 2025 |

Remembering Gordana

A tribute of love, in the heart of her hometown

Painted by acclaimed muralist Reuben Boughtwood (@Reubszz), this artwork celebrates the life and spirit of Gordana Kotevski - a joyful, kind, and much-loved teenager who grew up here in Cardiff.

Based on treasured family photos, this mural reflects Gordana’s vibrant personality, her deep connection to family and culture, and the love that continues to surround her today.

In 1994, Gordana was just 16 years old when she was abducted in Charlestown - just metres from her aunt’s home. Her case remains unsolved, but her memory lives on.

This mural is not only a tribute to Gordana’s life, but a symbol of the community that still holds her close. Created by her family and supported by volunteers, businesses, and local residents, it’s a lasting reminder that love never disappears.

You can follow Gordana's story on a Facebook page set up by her family here.

About Gordana

Gordana Kotevski was born in Newcastle, NSW, on 29 December 1977.

The curly, dark-haired second child of Peggy and Branko Kotevski, she was a beloved younger sister to Carolina and later a big sister to Damien. Bright, joyful, and full of love, Gordana adored her family — her parents, siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

The Kotevski family was part of Newcastle’s vibrant Macedonian community. In her early teens, Gordana joined the local Stiv Naumov Macedonian dance group, dedicating hours each week to rehearsing — she truly loved to dance. A popular student at her local high school, she had many friends and was well liked by both peers and teachers.

On the evening of 24 November 1994, 16-year-old Gordana was out shopping with friends at Charlestown Square during Thursday night late trading. Her parents had recently given her permission to attend her first live concert — Boyz II Men — and she was excitedly choosing an outfit for the occasion.

Tragically, while walking the short distance from the shopping centre to her aunt Sonya’s home, Gordana was abducted by at least two unknown men and forced into a vehicle. She was just metres from safety. Despite several witnesses to the abduction, Gordana has never been seen again.

For over three decades, Gordana’s family has tirelessly fought to keep her story alive and ensure her case remains open. In 2019, NSW Police reopened the investigation under Strike Force Arapaima, which remains active. In 2022, Gordana became the face of Australia’s campaign for International Missing Children’s Day, and a $1 million reward was announced for information leading to the resolution of her case.

About the Project

In early 2024, inspired by an idea from Gordana's Aunt Julie to create a mural in Gordana’s honour, a small group of professional women came together - each volunteering their time and expertise across a range of fields. The team included a seasoned project manager in arts and cultural events, a respected journalist, a state marketing manager, and a qualified architectural designer and draftsperson.

With the support of The Missed Foundation - a charitable Australian organisation dedicated to helping families navigate ambiguous loss - the team set out to raise $20,000 to bring the mural to life.

Through community events such as a movie night, race day raffles, and the generous support of individuals, businesses, and local organisations, the campaign not only met but exceeded its goal - raising over $22,000.

The Artist

The first major step was securing the artist: Reuben Boughtwood, known professionally as Reubszz - a Sydney-based artist originally from Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Reubszz is renowned for his large-scale public artworks and finely detailed studio pieces. His style is grounded in realism, often drawing from his own photography. Through his art, he explores themes of human connection and shared everyday struggles, creating works that are both visually powerful and emotionally moving.

The Wall

The team initially focused on securing a wall in Charlestown, where Gordana was last seen, but no suitable sites were available. Undeterred, they broadened their search.

Then, by chance, during an afternoon drive, Julie spotted a large, prominent wall at Cardiff Shopping Centre and thought, Could this be the one? It felt perfect — a striking location right in the heart of Gordana’s hometown.

Once contact was made with the centre’s management company, the project quickly gathered momentum — it was full steam ahead.

Honouring Gordana

Gordana’s story has become part of Newcastle’s collective memory. This mural is more than a work of art — it’s a symbol of remembrance, love, and hope. It stands to offer a sense of peace and healing, not only for Gordana’s family and friends, but for the entire community who continues to carry her story in their hearts.

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