Geelong gathers for biggest Reconciliation in the Park

GEELONG’S largest Reconciliation in the Park to date turned Johnstone Park into a scene of harmony on Sunday (May 28), following a turnout not seen at the event in its 14-year history.

Event organiser and Wadawurrung woman Nikki McKenzie said while the event doesn’t record exact attendance yet, it was the “largest” Reconciliation in the Park to date with “more than a thousand people” enjoying the atmosphere.

“It was a really successful day, I’d definitely say we had the biggest crowd we’ve ever had, despite the weather,” Ms McKenzie said.

“We did have a slower start in the morning, but once the weather cleared up, the people came.”

This year’s theme, ‘Be A Voice For Generations’, served as a reminder that everyone could be a voice for reconciliation, with several events taking place across the Geelong and Surf Coast region.

The City of Greater Geelong is projecting new Indigenous artwork on the City Hall building nightly until tomorrow (June 3), and partnered with Reconciliation Victoria to host an Uluru Statement from the Heart Community Forum entitled ‘The Heart, The Journey – The Story of Us’ on Tuesday (May 30).

On the Surf Coast, the Shire hosted a keynote address from prominent Voice to Parliament campaigner and proud Kaurareg Aboriginal and Kalkalgal, Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man Thomas Mayo on May 29.

Among the Indigenous artists showcasing their talents at Reconciliation in the Park, the event’s returning market featuring dozens of works from local First Nations’ musicians and crafters.

The event’s highly anticipated barbecue was back, led by one of the Wathaurong Co-op’s community volunteers Sandy Manning, who again ran out of stock, proving why it is a staple of Geelong’s Reconciliation in the Park.

“I can only hope that this event will continue to grow, and we can start moving to a more frequent event,” Ms McKenzie added.

“I would love to hope that we, as First Nations people, remain in the forefront of everyone’s minds as a first stop and not a last stop.

“We are super excited to return next year to celebrate our 15th year of this event.”