The Gannawarra marks Reconciliation Week 2023
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Published on 01 June 2023
Gannawarra Shire residents joined First Nations leaders to mark National Reconciliation Week with a morning of celebrations on Tuesday, 30 May.
Gannawarra Shire Council, in partnership with Mallee District Aboriginal Services and Northern District Community Health, organised events held outside the Kerang Council Building and at the Kerang Memorial Hall, resulting in more than 100 people attending.
“It is great to see National Reconciliation Week celebrations continue to grow, with festivities now a highlight of Kerang’s events calendar,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.
“The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2023 is Be a Voice for Generations, which encourages us all to create a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all. This was evident on the day, especially with the number of children in attendance.”
Festivities began outside the Kerang Council Building with Mayor Gillingham joining Elder Uncle Lloyd Murray in raising the Aboriginal flag, before community leaders joined Elders and residents in walking to the Kerang Memorial Hall.
ABOVE: National Reconciliation Walk participants outside Mallee District Aboriginal Services, Kerang.
Celebrations at the Kerang Memorial Hall included a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country lead by Barapa Barapa Elder Hack Webster who was joined by Tyipen Kwe member Warren junior, a poignant moment of reflection for loved ones, a storytelling session featuring the story, My Deadly Boots read by Elder Aunty Lil Murray and a performance by Yorta Yorta artist Madi Colville-Walker.
“The most extraordinary moment was Pearl Dunn’s moving tribute to Elders past, acknowledging the profound impact of their lives on generations to come. Pearl spoke lovingly of her Mother, Aunty Esther Kirby and her enormous contribution to our local community, and across the state, and how we miss her,” Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson said.
ABOVE: Mayor Charlie Gillingham speaking at Kerang's National Reconciliation Week celebrations.
Families that were not able to attend the Reconciliation Week walk can experience the story 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 were funded by Gannawarra Shire flood recovery funding.
MAIN PHOTO: Mayor Charlie Gillingham watches on as Elder Uncle Lloyd Murray raised the Aboriginal flag during Kerang's National Reconciliation Week celebrations.