Community honours women at inaugural IWD event

LOCAL mob and allies gathered at Murran Hub last week to celebrate the First Nations women of Djilang.

Hosted by Geelong MP Christine Couzens and Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles, the sold-out event began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony performed by Ms Eccles.

Two awards were presented as part of the event, a First Nations Elder award and a First Nations Woman award, chosen by a panel of young First Nations women through a unique selection process that saw all identifying information about the nominees removed.

 

 

Ms Couzens said the event was a great opportunity to shine a light on all the work of First Nations women and shine a light on all the work they do.

“I’m so excited that this is actually the very first time that Community has got their own International Women’s Day event.

“You are sending a really powerful message out into the community, not just to your own community, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, but to all the allies, and to all those that may not quite be friends.

 

 

“This is what self-determination is all about… we have made a lot of progress – there’s no doubt about that – but there’s so much more to do.”

The First Nations Elder award was presented to Aunty Mary Shuttleworth, for her tireless leadership, efforts to preserve the Wadawurrung language and culture, and her “profound impact” on both the current and future generations of Wadawurrung People.

Ms Eccles praised Aunty Mary’s humility, strength and integrity, qualities that have garnered the respect of both the First Nations and wider community and ensured her guidance is sought by many.

 

 

“Aunty Mary exemplifies the resilience and determination of Wadawurrung People, and her leadership plays a crucial role in the revitalisation of Wadawurrung language,” she said, citing several examples of her “visionary approach” to cultural preservation.

“Aunty Mary’s legacy of leadership, wisdom and commitment to her culture is inspirational. Her unwavering dedication continues to inspire generations of women, young people and allies alike.”

The First Nations Woman award was presented to Jasmine Skye-Marinos.

 

 

Ms Eccles said Jasmine’s passionate, dedication to culture and work facilitating projects that support and advocate for First Nations women made her a “true role model”.

“A dedicated mother, Jasmine ensures her child is deeply connected to their culture.

“Raising the next generations of leaders with pride, she continues to push through barriers and drive positive change, often working behind the scenes to make a lasting impact on her community.”