Walking together for Reconciliation

Each year, 27 May to 3 June marks National Reconciliation Week; a time for all Australians to come together to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements while exploring ways to move forward as a unified nation. 

In respect of National Reconciliation Week, Tamworth Regional Council will once again host the Tamworth Long (Short) Walk with Elders on Tuesday 28 May 2019. 

This year’s event, themed ‘Grounded in truth, Walk together in courage’, will commence at Ray Walsh House with a Smoking Ceremony followed by the Walk with Elders, Councillors and young Indigenous leaders from the Girls Academies and Clontarf Academy who are encouraging members of the community to join them. 

“This is a really significant time that we take each year to reflect on our shared history and culture as Australians but it’s also a time where we think about moving forward and building a future together, no matter what race you are or cultural background you have,” said Tamworth Region Mayor Col Murray. 

“We hope to see everyone lining the footpaths as we all walk together in respect of the past and celebration for the future.”

On the return from the walk to Ray Walsh House, there will be a series of speeches from young people within the community who will share what reconciliation means to them, followed but entertainment and refreshments. 

The dates for National Reconciliation remain the same each year; 27 May to 3 June as these dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision, respectively.

The Long (Short) Walk will take place on Tuesday 28 May at 11am, starting at Ray Walsh House, 437 Peel Street, Tamworth.  For more information visit www.tamworth.nsw.gov.au/National-Reconciliation-Week 

#NRW2019 Campaign:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long called for a comprehensive process of truth-telling about Australia’s colonial history. Our nation’s past is reflected in the present and will continue to play out in future unless we heal historical wounds.

Whether you’re engaging in challenging conversations or unlearning and relearning what you know, this journey requires all of us to walk together with courage. This National Reconciliation Week, we invite Australians from all backgrounds to contribute to our national movement towards a unified future.