BGT unveils reconciliation plan

BGT Jobs and Training launched their Reconciliation Action Plan for 2022 to 2023 last week at Barkly Square.

CEO Graham McMahon said the aim of the document is that it’s a measurable framework for BGT’s governance, relationships, and practices.

“[These areas] bring our commitment to life, translating intention into action,” he said.

“In articulating our vision for reconciliation and through implementation of the RAP, BGT will continue working to ensure a culturally safe and respectful environment with increased engagement opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

Mr McMahon said a RAP aligns with the organisation’s aim to celebrate and promote diversity and equity, to be accessible to people of all ages, and to provide a safe space for multicultural communities.

The launch event began with a welcome to country from Wadawurrung man, singer, and poet Barry Gilson, before Wadawurrung artist Jenna Oldaker shared an original painting commissioned by BGT for the RAP.

“I met with Emma and Kelsie at BGT and we came up with a lot of great ideas about what BGT wanted to facilitate through the artwork, and what principles and values were important to them,” Oldaker said.

“What we’ve come up with is based on us being the water tribe. This is symbolic in the blue moving through the centre, especially with Specimen Vale Creek as well, which is important to BGT and the community around.

“We’ve also got the symbols for meeting place… BGT is for the community, bringing everyone together and giving back. There’s also the symbol for person, or people, symbolising adults and children coming together.”

There’s also a more literal representation of a square to represent Barkly Square, with the symbol for meeting place in its centre. Eucalyptus leaves represent the land, country, and giving back.

“Thank you to BGT for wanting to engage the Indigenous community. It’s a really important step to what we’re trying to achieve with Wadawurrung and all First Nations people,” Oldaker said.