Strengthening relationships will be the focus of National Reconciliation Week 2025, with free and accessible public events planned in the Cessnock local government area.
Cessnock City Council will host a gathering at the yarning circle in Bridges Hill Park, Cessnock, from 10am on Wednesday 28 May, featuring a ceremony at 10.30am with performances and speakers sharing their reflections on this year's theme – Bridging Now to Next.
The same day, Council's youth service Cessnock Youth Centre and Outreach Service (CYCOS) will hold a faux emu egg decoration workshop from 3.30pm for people aged 11 to 18, and Kurri Kurri Library will host Wayapa Rhymetime – open to all ages and focusing on mindfulness, story meditation, and physical movements to promote sustainability, connection, and community.
A second session of Wayapa Rhymetime will be held at 10am on 3 June at Cessnock Library.
Cessnock City Mayor Daniel Watton said National Reconciliation Week was a time to reflect on the past, present, and future.
"It is a chance for the community to come together in a spirit of respect to celebrate the world's oldest continuous culture, and reflect on how we can contribute to achieving reconciliation," Clr Watton said.
"Everyone is welcome at these free events and I encourage the community to attend."
Bookings are essential for the emu egg decoration workshop. Visit Cessnock Youth Centre's page on the Eventbrite website to reserve a spot.
