A striking Aboriginal-style abstract painting has been flown all the way from the Shire of York in Western Australia as a gift for the people of York.

The colourful three-foot wide framed painting, which was created especially for York by renowned artist Merle Narkle-Goodwin, arrived with City of York Council this week.

The Shire of York in Western Australia, which celebrated its 175th anniversary last year, is the oldest inland town in the state. It was named after York when early explorers  noted a resemblance between the two landscapes. Given its historic connection with the City of York, the Shire of York is keen to forge links and gifted the painting to the city and its people. It has asked for the painting to be hung within the council buildings.  It will be formally presented to the council at its next meeting and will be on display in the reception area of the Guildhall for people to view.

Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Irene Waudby, said: "We very much appreciate the spirit and generosity of this gift, which has travelled across the world. In receiving this present, we are further cementing our ties with York in Western Australia."

York is the oldest inland town in Western Australia, situated approximately 97 kilometres east of Perth.