Next gen learns this Reconciliation Week

NATIONAL Reconciliation Week is being marked in Moorabool Shire with flag raisings, art displays, and special story-times, to educate young people on Indigenous culture.

National Reconciliation Week runs until 3 June, and in Moorabool, commemorations kicked off on Monday with a flag raising ceremony at The Village Green in Bacchus Marsh.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags were hoisted side by side with the Australian flag at 10am, followed by a morning tea at the Supper Room, where local kids could colour in Indigenous designs and share their ideas for a more reconciled Australia.

Moorabool Shire mayor Cr Ally Munari presided over the ceremony, and thanked those in attendance for being a part of the special week.

“Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to share about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia,” Cr Munari said.

“Moorabool Shire Council adopted a statement of commitment to Indigenous people, which recognises the Aboriginal people as the original owners and custodians of this land and waters.

“In this statement, council outlines its commitment to actions including the preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage, promotion of education to enhance the understanding and awareness of Aboriginal heritage, and the commitment to closing the gap in disparities between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in areas of health, employment, education, housing, and social and emotional wellbeing and justice.”

A similar flag raising ceremony was held at the council chambers in Ballan at 10am on Wednesday, which was followed by a special story-time at Ballan Library at 11am.

Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh held its own special story-time on Thursday at 10am.

The MAPP Up in Lights displays in Bacchus Marsh and Ballan are highlighting the works of local artist Tanisha Quilliam until the end of July.

The theme of this year’s National Reconciliation Week is Now More Than Ever, aiming to remind the community that the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People will, and must continue.

For more information. visit reconciliation.org.au.