Wadawurrung-led Pilk Purriyn to return on January 26

WADAWURRUNG Traditional Owners will again lead a sunrise truth-telling gathering at Cosy Corner in Torquay on January 26.

The Pilk Purriyn event, which is now in its fourth year, will begin at 5.30am on Warri Dja (Sea Country), bringing the community together for deep listening, reflection and cultural connection.

Pilk Purriyn means “sunrise” in Wadawurrung language, with the event held at sunrise to symbolise the dawning of a new era of understanding and healing between all people in the community.

Led by the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (WTOAC), the gathering will include a Welcome to Country, Smoking and dance ceremonies, as well as singing.

Truth-telling is central to the event, which organisers say helps deepen awareness of the “enduring grief, loss and harm caused by colonisation”.

“January 26 is a difficult day for many in our Mob – but Pilk Purriyn is changing that,” Wadawurrung Traditional Owner and WTOAC co-chief executive Sarah Eccles said.

“Each year, more people join us on Warri Dja at sunrise to listen, reflect and walk together toward healing.

“These gatherings counter what January 26 has long represented and creates space for real healing and recognition.

“Seeing the community embrace this new way of recognising the day gives us hope for the future.”

Thousands gathered at Cosy Corner for the event last year, with people of all ages and backgrounds again invited to come together in quiet, compassionate reflection.

The free event is supported by the Surf Coast Shire and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.

Surf Coast mayor, Libby Stapleton, said Pilk Purriyn had become a significant and meaningful event for the region.

“Council is proud to respectfully support Wadawurrung Traditional Owners and the wider First Nations Community in their truth-telling, which helps deepen understanding of the immeasurable hurt and loss felt by First Nations people on 26 January,” she said.

“Deep listening and understanding are at the heart of reconciliation journeys, and we encourage people from across our region to again witness and absorb Pilk Purriyn with open hearts.”

For more information, visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PilkPurriyn