Be a voice for generations during Reconciliation Week

Published on 19 May 2023

Gannawarra Shire residents are encouraged to join a walk through Kerang’s streets as part of National Reconciliation Week celebrations on Tuesday, 30 May.

Gannawarra Shire Council, in partnership with Mallee District Aboriginal Services and Northern District Community Health, is organising a morning of activities, highlighted by a walk from the Kerang Council Building to the Kerang Memorial Hall.

“Kerang is renowned for its National Reconciliation Week celebrations, which enables residents to learn about our our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

“This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week, which runs from 27 May to 3 June, is Be a Voice for Generations, which encourages us all to create a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all.”

Festivities will begin with a flag raising ceremony outside the Kerang Council Building in Victoria Street at 9.30am, before local leaders and residents walk to the Kerang Memorial Hall via Wellington, Fitzroy, Scoresby and Nolan streets.

Events occurring at the Kerang Memorial Hall will begin at 10am with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country, a moment of reflection for loved ones, and a storytelling session featuring the story, My Deadly Boots. A free morning tea will follow proceedings.

“Northern District Community Health is proud to walk alongside our local Aboriginal community during Reconciliation Week 2023. We warmly welcome the community to walk with us and celebrate the deep connection and continuous impact our Kerang Aboriginal Elders, Emerging Leaders and future generations have on the life of our community,” Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson said.

“Mallee District Aboriginal Services actively supports reconciliation, and believes it’s a journey we must all go on together. Working collectively we can ensure the future of Australia is one where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and culture are valued, and where understanding, respect, opportunity and aspiration are promoted for all people,” Mallee District Aboriginal Services Chief Executive Officer, Darlene Thomas said.

Families not able to attend the Reconciliation Week walk will be able to experience My Deadly Boots by visiting Atkinson Park, Kerang and Garden Park, Cohuna between 30 May and 13 June, with StoryWalks to be set up at both locations.

Kerang’s Reconciliation Week celebrations are funded by Gannawarra Shire flood recovery funding.