Geelong’s council unveiled an Acknowledgement to Country plaque at City Hall on Monday as part of its NAIDOC Week commemorations.
The week, which began on Sunday, celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Council’s diversity portfolio chair Sarah Mansfield described NAIDOC week as a chance to learn about Geelong’s “rich and diverse” Indigenous culture.
“It also encourages our community to engage in open, truthful dialogue, and reflect on how we can enable self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Cr Mansfield said.
She and Mayor Bruce Harwood unveiled the plaque that acknowledged “Wadawurrung Traditional Owners of this land” and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Geelong.
Cr Harwood hoped this year’s theme of ‘Voice. Treaty. Truth. Let’s work together for a shared future’ would further open dialogue between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
“NAIDOC Week is always a special time in our region, and there is so much to celebrate and be proud of,” he said.
“Council is working on improving outcomes for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, with our first Reconciliation Action Plan.
“This framework will guide the City’s strategies and activities with our Aboriginal residents.”
Council’s NAIDOC Week 2019 includes various events such as The City Presents: An Evening with Aunty Eleanor Bourke and Professor Sarah Maddison.
A list of events is available online at www.geelongaustralia.com.au.
