Aboriginal Elders, civic leaders, school students and community members will come together as part of Shellharbour City Council's 2026 National Reconciliation Week celebrations, with the annual Reconciliation School Flag Walk set to once again take place at Reddall Reserve East on Monday 1 June.
Held during National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), the walk brings together local schools and community members in a shared act of recognition, respect and unity.
The event provides an opportunity for people of all ages to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each individual can contribute to reconciliation in Australia.
Caption: Local school students and Elders will take part in the annual Shellharbour Reconciliation School Flag Walk on Monday, 1 June 2026. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer said the event continues to be a significant and meaningful event for the city.
"Our Reconciliation School Flag Walk is a powerful reminder that reconciliation is everyone's responsibility," Mayor Homer said.
"This year's theme "All In", is a call for collective responsibility and action, reminding us that reconciliation is not the work of a few - it requires all of us to show up, listen, learn and walk forward together.
Local students from schools across the city will take part in the walk, proudly carrying flags as a symbol of unity and respect.
They will be joined by Aboriginal and non‑Aboriginal community members in a visible commitment to reconciliation.
"Seeing our young people walking alongside Elders and community members shows what's possible when we're all in, learning from the past and building stronger, more respectful relationships for the future," Mayor Homer said.
Following the walk, participants will come together for a civic ceremony and flag exchange, along with cultural activities designed to encourage learning, reflection and connection.
Event details: Monday 1 June - Shellharbour's Reconciliation School Flag Walk
• 9:30am-9:45am: Arrival point at Warilla Surf Club
• 10am: Reconciliation Walk begins north-east towards Reddall Reserve
• 10:30am: Flag Ceremony at Reddall Reserve East
• 11:30am-1pm: Lunch and afternoon activities
• 1pm: Conclusion
KEY MESSAGES:
- Shellharbour's Reconciliation School Flag Walk brings Elders, students and the community together in a shared act of respect, unity and reflection.
- The 2026 National Reconciliation Week theme, All In, calls on everyone to take collective responsibility for reconciliation - by listening, learning and walking forward together.
- By centring young people and community connection, the event highlights the role we all play in building a more respectful and inclusive future for Shellharbour.
