Reconciliation Week Across The Region

Local events to mark Reconciliation Week took place across the Whitsundays this week, beginning with a special ceremony hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council and held in Proserpine on Monday.

Mayor Ry Collins was in attendance and said he was honoured to participate in the ceremony held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, which marked the beginning of National Reconciliation Week. 
 
"The ceremony was a poignant reminder of our shared history and the importance of reconciliation," he said.
 
"During this week, it is important we all take time to educate ourselves, to listen, and to engage in meaningful conversations about reconciliation. 
 
“I would like to thank all those involved in the ceremony, including Yooribaya Cultural Experiences and representatives from our local schools, who came together to share their messages celebrating Indigenous culture and promoting understanding on the journey of reconciliation.”

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) provides an opportunity for every Australian to delve into our collective pasts, cultures, and successes, while contemplating our individual roles in fostering reconciliation across the nation.

Make sure to visit the Airlie Beach Foreshore tonight, Friday 31 May, from 5pm onwards for a Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony, Traditional dance, songs and workshops with Yooribaya Cultural Experiences.

The night ends with a showing of ‘The Last Daughter’ a documentary film about Aboriginal woman Brenda, that remembers growing up with her loving white foster parents before suddenly being taken away and returned to her Aboriginal family.

Along the way she uncovers long-buried secrets, government lies, and the possibility for deeper connections to family and culture. 

Watch Brenda’s journey to unearth the truth about her past, and to reconcile the two sides of her family.

In Bowen, Reconciliation Week continues with The Reconciliation Week Twilight Markets starting at 4pm, Friday 31 May at Hansen Park. This event will showcase traditional cultural arts and customs such as a Welcome to Country, smoking Ceremony and traditional dance.

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Mayor Ry Collins at the PEC giving a speech to mark the beginning of Reconciliation Week
Uncle Robert Congoo conducting the Smoking Ceremony

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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