Truth-telling journey deepens on the Surf Coast

HUNDREDS of people gathered before sunrise on Wadawurrung Country in Torquay for a powerful truth-telling event yesterday (Monday, January 26) morning.

For the fourth year, Warri Dja (Sea Country) at Cosy Corner provided a timeless and deeply meaningful setting for Pilk Purriyn.

First Nations people shared ceremony, truth, reflections and song, inviting all to deepen their understanding of what January 26 means for First Nations people.

Hosted by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, the event offered a space for people from all backgrounds to come together in quiet reflection, deep listening and healing.

Stolen Generations survivor Aunty Colleen Howell’s story was shared by her daughters, who also shared story through song.

The audience learned more about the deep harm, devastation and loss experienced through colonisation and sat respectfully to hear about the survival and resilience of First Nations people.

The morning concluded with the crowd dancing together to Yothu Yindi’s Treaty – a moment of joy marking the statewide Treaty announced in Victorian Parliament last year.

Wadawurrung woman and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation co-chief executive officer Bek Devlin thanked all for their bravery and openness to share these truths.

“The huge number of people who make a conscious effort to rise early on a public holiday and join us for this event shows there is genuine support, and indeed a deep yearning for reconciliation in this country. That you can still be proud and love your country, while holding great sorrow for the way our nation came to be.

“We step into the future with hope and purpose, working towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all Australians. This is a shared journey to reconciliation, a path we all walk together.”

Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said this event reached people in a way that few other events could

“It was heartening to see so many people there acknowledging truths and absorbing culture.

“We come away grateful for deeper understanding and greater resolve to walk alongside First Nations people in spirit of recognition and healing.”