Freo celebrates National Reconciliation Week

In moving towards creating a more inclusive, caring and reconciled nation the City of Fremantle will again observe National Reconciliation Week which runs from 27 May to 3 June across Australia. 

National Reconciliation Week is a time for Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

The 2023 theme is Be a Voice for Generations. The theme encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise.

In addition to being preceded by National Sorry Day on 26 May, Reconciliation Week commemorates two significant milestones. The successful referendum that saw more than 90 per cent of Australians recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander as people on 27 May 1967. And the Mabo decision, the legal recognition of the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on 3 June 1992.

You can read more about Reconciliation Week here. 

In recognition of National Reconciliation Week, the City of Fremantle will be running several events across the week at the Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Freo Toy Library.  

Freo Toy Library Reconciliation Morning Tea

Friday 26 May, 10am-12pm, Fremantle PCYC

Join the Freo Toy Library this National Sorry Day for a morning tea, in celebration of the start to Reconciliation week. Special guest Tim Kelly will be performing story telling with his didgeridoo, and a Nature Play makerspace will be done by Cath. Buster, the City's free multi-sensory play program, will also be set up for the event with toys and activities for kids to enjoy.

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Kids Storytime & Face Painting

Thursday 1 June, 11am–12pm, Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Specifically tailored for little ones and their parents, join the Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre to reflect on our history while learning about Aboriginal culture. This informative cultural activity will include Nyoongar storytime, colouring-in and face painting.

Purchase tickets here. 

Cultural Awareness Training

Friday 2 June, 11am–12pm, Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Kaya Lee a Nyoongar Yorga born on Whadjuk Boodja, from the Nyaki Nyaki and Ballardong tribes, with many years of research and experience under her belt on the history of the Nyoongar culture will be facilitating this year’s Cultural Awareness Training. Join this session to learn about Australia’s Reconciliation journey and reflect on our shared history.

Purchase tickets here.