Weaving Conversations Around Reconciliation

A sea of colourful threads sprawled across the tables at Mater Private Hospital Mackay last Friday, as hands of all ages carefully looped, twisted and wove raffia together to celebrate and recognise National Reconciliation Week.

Laughter and friendly conversation filled the room as community members sat side-by-side learning the traditional art of weaving from First Nations artist Lee George.

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Held as part of this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, “All In”, the collaborative weaving project invited the community to come together not only to create a shared artwork, but to create connection and understanding.

For Artist Lee George, weaving carries a meaning far greater than art alone.

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“I love the connection that comes with it… it’s sharing stories, teaching people how to weave, and passing on my knowledge to other people,” she said.

Around the room, attendees leaned in close to learn new techniques, helping one another through tangled raffia and uneven loops, while conversations unfolded.

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“I think this kind of project brings everybody together and they’re also learning a new skill,” Lee said.

For many, the simple act of weaving offers a moment to slow down.

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“Weaving slows you down, and is also very grounding, so it keeps you very calm,” she said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said council was proud to partner with Mater Private Hospital Mackay to actively engage the community in a hands-on activity.  

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“This year we have engaged First Nations artist Lee George, who uses traditional weaving as a way to tell stories, create connection and build patience and respect,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By many people contributing to a woven piece, it’s incredibly symbolic of how we all need to work together towards reconciliation,” he said.

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“It’s a visual acknowledgement that we each need to step away from the sidelines and actively be involved in change.”

Community Development Officer Mulum Stone, who organised the event, said reconciliation begins with people coming together.

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“It’s about sitting around, engaging with each other and building relationships from a place of trust, respect and openness,” Ms Stone said.

“I can’t think of a better way to do this.”

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General Manager of Mater Private Hospital Mackay Kate Wade said the hospital was proud to help create space for those conversations to happen.

“It’s wonderful that we are able to play a key role in starting conversations around First Nations culture and reconciliation.”

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Mater’s Reconciliation Action Plan Program Manager Jo Jones said this year’s “All In” theme reflected a commitment to walking forward together.

“At Mater, being ‘all in’ means walking together with respect, listening with open hearts, and committing to reconciliation through understanding, inclusion and shared action,” Ms Jones said.

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“We honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and histories as we work together toward a more just and united future.”

Community members came together at Mater Private Hospital Mackay to weave, share stories and foster connection during National Reconciliation Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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