MORE than 1000 people walked across the bridge from San Remo to Millowl (Phillip Island) yesterday in a monumental display of support for reconciliation by the Bass Coast community.
The walk was led by Traditional Owners and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, followed by hundreds of school children and allies.
The walk was led by Traditional Owners and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, followed by hundreds of school children and allies.
Bass Coast Shire Council’s Patrice Mahoney said It was a heart-warming response.” “We asked the community to Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! and they did in large numbers.”
The walk started with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Aunty Sonia Weston-Hume and her son Daniel from the Bunurong Land Council.
Following the walk, Traditional Owners, local councillors and individuals reflected on their reconciliation journey and shared stories of accomplishment and achievement.
Bunurong Elder Uncle Anthony Egan said he was heartened to see so many kids present learning about reconciliation. “Truthful education of our shared histories and integration of Aboriginal history into curriculum is essential to create a brighter future for all.”
Bass Coast Mayor Michael Whelan said the walk was an opportunity for the community to come together in solidarity and show their support.
The walk was organised by the Bass Coast Reconciliation Network, made up of members from Bass Coast Shire Council, Bass Coast Health, Westernport Water, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bunurong Land Council, Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members.
The walk started with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Aunty Sonia Weston-Hume and her son Daniel from the Bunurong Land Council.
Following the walk, Traditional Owners, local councillors and individuals reflected on their reconciliation journey and shared stories of accomplishment and achievement.
Bunurong Elder Uncle Anthony Egan said he was heartened to see so many kids present learning about reconciliation. “Truthful education of our shared histories and integration of Aboriginal history into curriculum is essential to create a brighter future for all.”
Bass Coast Mayor Michael Whelan said the walk was an opportunity for the community to come together in solidarity and show their support.
The walk was organised by the Bass Coast Reconciliation Network, made up of members from Bass Coast Shire Council, Bass Coast Health, Westernport Water, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bunurong Land Council, Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members.