Hundreds show up for Reconciliation Week

The event started with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony led by Wollithiga Elder Uncle Rick Ronnan.

“For me to do this, to welcome people onto country, is an honour,” he said.

“The only thing we ask in return is that you pay respect to this land that you’re on.”

The three plants used for the smoking ceremony were the cherry ballart, wattle, and gum, with guests asked to walk through the smoke head-to-toe to “smoke themselves”.

“It’s great to see everybody,” Uncle Rick said.

“This is what it’s all about; coming together as one.”

Community members gathered on Hare St for the walk, which was led by Njernda staff, local mayors, and school students.

Clapsticks and didgeridoos provided a rhythmic accompaniment as hundreds walked to Hopwood Gardens.

Campaspe Shire Council’s Cr Paul Jarman and Cr Amos delivered speeches, reflecting on the Reconciliation Week 2024 theme.

“This year’s theme: Now More Than Ever, resonates deeply with our collective responsibility to continue the journey towards justice and equality for First Nations people,” Cr Amos said.

“Our nation’s history is marked by the resilience and wisdom of Indigenous Australians, whose culture and connection to the land spans over 60,000 years.

“However, it is a history marred in injustice and inequality to move forward.

“We must acknowledge these truths and ensure they are never forgotten.”

Njernda CEO John Mitchell and Echuca police Senior Sergeant Damian Keegan also spoke at the event.

“The most important thing is (that) we’re here as an Aboriginal community,” Mr Mitchell said.

“We’re here, we’re proud, we’re strong, and we are going to move further in this community as Aboriginal people.

“We’re a community-driven organisation, that focuses on community service delivery and better outcomes, closing the gap and also reconciliation.”

After the speeches, Yorta Yorta Elder Uncle Des Morgan raised the Australian flag, and Cr Amos raised the Aboriginal flag, symbolising unity and reconciliation.

Yorta Yorta Elder and Njernda board member Aunty Janice Muir was at the event. She is the granddaughter of Indigenous trailblazer and AFL legend Sir Doug Nicholls.

“He would’ve been proud,” she said.

Uncle Rick was happy with how the event went, particularly impressed by the turnout and participation of the local community.

“What a crowd, what a great crowd,” he said.

“It’s getting bigger every year.”