16/05/2024

National Reconciliation Week and Sorry Day are significant dates for all Australians. National Sorry Day on 26 May and Reconciliation Week from 27 May to 3 June provide an opportunity to learn about and reflect on the shared histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 
 
Under the theme "Now More Than Ever”, we're reminded of the ongoing struggles for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
 
“This week serves as a reminder to all of us that the journey to reconciliation is ongoing. Our Georges River community thrives on connection and solidarity. I encourage all residents to explore how they can personally contribute to the positive path for reconciliation in Australia,” says Georges River Mayor, Sam Elmir.
 
Learning and connecting are essential to our reconciliation journey. In recognition of this week, Georges River Council has a number of free events and activities for the community.
 
One of our highlight events features Bidjigal Traditional Owner, Aunty Barb Simms, and local Traditional Knowledge Holder, Uncle Dean Kelly, a Yuin/Wailwan man. On the morning of Saturday 25 May, before National Reconciliation Week begins, join us at Oatley Park to hear from Aunty Barb and Uncle Dean. Aunty Barb is a survivor of the Stolen Generations and Deputy Chair of the NSW/ACT Stolen Generation Council. This event is an opportunity to join her in a yarning circle to hear her experiences and the work that is currently being done to address the ongoing impacts of key historical policies. Walk on Country with Uncle Dean who will be sharing knowledge passed down to him through his family and elders about how the native environment has been used and cared for over tens of thousands of years.
 
Council is also hosting opportunities to join Muruwarri artist, Virginia Keft, for interactive Aboriginal weaving and yarning circles that support cultural connection, including one opportunity at Hurstville Library that will also feature a Mandarin Interpreter.  
 
Throughout Reconciliation Week, Council encourages our community to contribute to  our Sea of Hands Murals through activities at Hurstville Museum & Gallery as well as our Penshurst and Clive James, Kogarah, libraries. These collaborative murals will symbolise the coming together of hands of individuals from across the community in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
 
Information about National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week and related events can be found on Georges River Council’s Reconciliation Week webpage.