Reconciliation is returning to Geelong’s Johnstone Park for a day of community and reflection with First Nations music, food and activities.
Reconciliation in the Park will be held on Sunday, May 25, from 10am to 3pm and will feature a Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony and activities for all ages.
Proud Noongar, Ngapuhi and NgatiTuwharetoa Woman Kiri Tawhai said the event honoured National Reconciliation Week (May 27 to June 3) and this year’s theme of ‘Bridging Now to Next’.
“This day comes together to share how amazing First Nation’s culture is, but it’s really about being in a space and just having a yarn,” she said.
“It’s also about moving away from just talking about reconciliation to challenging people to go, ‘what are you doing to build a reconciled future?’.
“We’ve seen some steps backwards over the last couple of years regarding reconciliation and what’s been going on and it’s really hitting a point where we need to do more.”
Ms Tawhai grew up on Jabarurra Country (northwest Australia) and has lived and worked on Wadawurrung Country since 2016. She said Sunday was a great time for people to come together.
“We’ve tried to make it bigger and better with some more activities and we’re going to have amazing musicians on stage,” she said.
“I absolutely love my culture. I love all of my brothers and sisters. I love Wadawurrung Country, so to be able to share that with everybody is going to be really amazing.
“Everyone is welcome to come along to open their hearts and minds, and to see what they learn in this space, while encouraging them to do more learning outside of the day.”
Jena Carr
