Surf Coast residents gather to voice ‘Yes’

AT least 500 supporters of the Voice to Parliament’s ‘yes’ vote took to Torquay’s Esplanade showing support of Indigenous constitutional recognition.

Last Sunday’s event, organised by local advocacy group Surf Coast Votes Yes and convenor Hutch Hussein, began with a smoking ceremony and a Welcome to Country at Elephant Walk.

The ceremony was conducted by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Corrina Eccles and didgeridoo player Anthony Hume.

Ms Hussein and Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker performed speeches to conclude the ceremony.

Following the ceremony, the crowd walked down towards Torquay Beach’s hillside forming the word “YES!”.

Ms Hussein said she was pleased with Sunday’s turnout.

“I’m really touched that so many people share the same aspirations as Surf Coast Votes Yes, wanting to do something, wanting to stand up and wanting to speak up,” Ms Hussein said.

“We are an Australia that is fair-minded and an Australia that does believe that First Nations people deserve a fair go and that’s what the voice is about.

“Making sure [First Nations] people have a say on the things that impact them.”

The event coincided with the beginning of NAIDOC Week (July 2-9) and fell on National ‘Come Together for Yes’ Day, which featured 17 events across the country.

The date of Parliament’s referendum to take place later this year has not been announced.