City to mark National Reconciliation Week

THE City of Greater Geelong will mark National Reconciliation Week with a series of planned activities across the region.

City Hall will be lit up from Tuesday, May 27 to June 3 with bold and innovation projections which celebrate continuing connection and care for Country.

The program will feature works from local First Nations artists Nikki McKenzie (Wadawurrung), Chloe Chatterton (Wadawurrung), Jenna Oldaker (Wadawurrung), Joshua James (Noongar Wardandi Boodja

Moorditj Kaadadjan), Jessi Muir (Wiradjuri), Michelle Searle (Awabakal), and Kiri Tawhai (Whadjuk Noongar, Ngapuhi and Ngāti Tūwharetoa).

Awabakal artist Michelle Searle said the City Hall projections were an amazing opportunity to showcase artists from across the lands.

“This diversity is reflected in our unique styles and artwork. My art reflects me and my journey,” she said.

“Reconciliation Week is a time for us all to reflect on where we have come from and acknowledge the cultural history of not only our beautiful Wathaurong lands but the lands of many nations across Australia.

“As a proud Aboriginal woman, I want to share my stories and art to spark conversation in a positive light on our culture.”

In addition to the projections, the City’s catenary lights at the intersection of Malop and Moorabool streets will fade to black, red and yellow, (Aboriginal flag) and green, blue, black and white (Torres Strait Islander flag) each evening.

A Smoking Ceremony and Walk on Country ceremony will be held by Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles on Wednesday, May 28 at the Carousel.

The Yarra Street Window Gallery will also debut a powerful First Peoples exhibition during National Reconciliation Week.

The vibrant display celebrates culture, connection to Country and storytelling through diverse mediums, offering a window into the creativity of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the City wanted to put reconciliation at the forefront of the community’s mind.

“Our region has great historic and cultural diversity and the range of activities on offer provide opportunities for the wider community to engage in dialogue about this year’s theme – Bridging Now to Next,” he said.

“National Reconciliation Week calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.”

The City is also financially supporting Reconciliation in the Park, which will be held in Johnstone Park this Sunday, May 25.