GPAC BEGINS RECONCILIATION MISSION

Geelong Performing Arts Centre is in the process of developing a “Reconciliation Action Plan” in a bid to strengthen its connection with Australia’s Indigenous groups through arts and culture.

The city’s iconic theatre venue’s goal is to be more “inviting” and “inclusive”, making reconciliation integral to its day-to-day operations.

GPAC chief executive officer Joel McGuinness said it’s his “desire” to ensure the centre creates connections to Aboriginal peoples’ cultures, stories and art forms.

“I want all people to feel welcome and at home here at GPAC. We will continue opening our doors to community so that
we can share all that we offer – specifically our education and arts programs for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and all events and programs across our centre,” he said.

“I am in awe of 65,000+ years of lived culture in Australia by our First Nations Peoples and pay my respects to the
Wadawurrung Traditional Custodians, the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By walking together, we can find ways to keep telling the great stories of this great land and to celebrate cultural arts long into the future.”

In celebration of National Reconciliation Week (May 27 – June 3), GPAC played host to a range of activities including native food tastings and a “lunchtime yarn” with Norm Stanley.

Community involvement in the development of the plan is encouraged.

Input is invited by contacting Kylie Clarke via [email protected] or by phoning 5225 1219.