Torquay was the sight of truth-telling on Sunday as the sun rose at Warri Dja (Sea Country).
Close to 2500 people gathered on Wadawurrung Country at Cosy Corner Torquay on January 26 during Pilk Purriyn’s third year to listen as Wadawurrung Traditional Owners shared testimonies and reflections.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Greg Robinson said January 26 was not a date to celebrate and thanked everyone who attended the sunrise event.
“Pilk Purriyn is important because gathering together to reflect as the sun rises honours our Ancestors and the full history of Wadawurrung People and Country,” he said.
“We say nyatne (thank you) to all who joined us this morning, for sitting and deeply listening to what we have to say, hearing our truth and for ‘koling wada ngal’ (walking together with us) into a reconciled future where there is a unification of our histories and our people and Culture are celebrated.”
Event proceedings included a traditional Welcome to Country, a smoking ceremony, and song and dance ceremonies.
Surf Coast Shire Council mayor Mike Bodsworth said it was important to acknowledge past wrongs and strengthen the community’s resolve for reconciliation and healing.
“Respectful deep listening is fundamental as we seek to grow our understanding of the deep sadness, loss and dislocation experienced by First Nations people since colonisation,” he said.
“Once again, we thank Wadawurrung Traditional Owners for their strength and grace in having provided our community with that opportunity through the sharing of truths at Pilk Purriyn.”
