The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags will once again be flown high and proud at the Hobsons Bay Civic Centre to mark National Reconciliation Week from 27 May to 3 June.
This year marks 20 years of Reconciliation Australia and to commemorate the anniversary, Hobsons Bay is hosting a diverse program that reflects this year's theme: 'More than a word. Reconciliation takes action'.
Locally, there are several opportunities to embrace National Reconciliation Week including:
A History in Posters* – Monday 24 May to Sunday 13 June at Williamstown Library Gallery and Hobsons Bay Civic Centre foyer wall. Follow the changes, developments (and designs) of National Reconciliation Week over the years. (The event will re-open to the public following the easing of COVID restrictions).
Stay-at-Home Tuesday Book Club – Hobsons Bay Libraries' May title is 'Truganini: Journey through the apocalypse' by Cassandra Pybus. If you love the book by Cassandra Pybus you'll also want to see her live at the Williamstown Town Hall for the Williamstown Literary Festival on Saturday 19 June. Details at willylitfest.org.au.
Understanding History: Only one step towards change – Thursday 27 May 6.30pm to 7.30pm (online). Join Archaeologist, Jacinta Koolmatrie, an Adnyamathanha and Ngarrindjeri person, who has a specific interest in Indigenous knowledge and perspectives. To register, visit libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/categories/for-readers/2877-understanding-history-only-one-step-towards-change
'Acknowledge This!' – Friday 28 May 10am to 12pm (online). Join expert facilitators Rhys Paddick and Emma Gibbens to learn the foundations for creating a genuine Acknowledgement of Country. To register, visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/Whats-On/Acknowledge-This-training
In line with our Reconciliation Action Plan 2019-2021 and this year's theme, Council is committed to reconciliation and encourages everyone to join the reconciliation movement, to commit in actions not just words.
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Hobsons Bay Cr Jonathon Marsden:
"I acknowledge the people of the Kulin Nations as traditional owners of lands within Hobsons Bay. Let's all get involved in the event program and grasp the opportunity to expand our knowledge and embrace reconciliation.
"The ancestors of Aboriginal residents who currently live in Hobsons Bay were the first custodians of the local wetlands and sweeping grasslands. It's so important that we embrace National Reconciliation Week to participate in truth-telling, and actively address issues of inequality and injustice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"I often visit the Lost Lands Found ecological exhibit in Logan Reserve to catch up on the native indigenous wildflowers, grasses, herbs and lillies. National Reconciliation Week provides an opportunity to surround ourselves in the culture of the First Nations who have cared for this country for thousands of generations and to foster an environment where these traditions can continue."
