Reconciliation Bridge Walk inspires the next generation
FRIDAY’S Bridge Walk was a monumental display of support for reconciliation by the Bass Coast and South Gippsland communities. The event saw well over 1000 people line the bridge from one side to another, as they walked from San Remo to Millowl...
FRIDAY’S Bridge Walk was a monumental display of support for reconciliation by the Bass Coast and South Gippsland communities.
The event saw well over 1000 people line the bridge from one side to another, as they walked from San Remo to Millowl (Phillip Island) to show their support for a reconciled community.
The walk for reconciliation celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, starting with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Aunty Sonia Weston-Hume and her son Daniel from the Bunurong Land Council, before participants made their way across the iconic Island bridge with their flags and messages of support.
“The Bridge Walk was postponed on two occasions over the past two years, so I’m delighted it was able to go ahead (today),” Patrice Mahoney, Bass Coast Shire Council, said.
“We asked the community to Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! and they did in large numbers., it was so heart-warming.
“NAIDOC and Reconciliation weeks are an important time and provide opportunities for people to reflect, learn and listen to stories, celebrate culture, and individual achievements. In doing so, show their support for reconciliation.”
Individuals cleansed their feet as part of the Smoking Ceremony before taking to the bridge.
“It’s a good event for non-Indigenous people to meet Indigenous people and come together as one,” Daniel Hume explained.
“In the past we’ve talked, now it’s time to walk together; to be on the right side of history.”
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.
Following the walk, participants heard from Traditional Owners, local councillors and individuals who reflected on their reconciliation journey and shared stories of accomplishment and achievement.
“We’re all committed to the ongoing development and progress of reconciliation, strengthening relationships and community spirit by working with and supporting First Nations people,” Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Michael Whelan, said.
The Bass Coast Reconciliation Network provides much needed support to make these events possible and is 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.
For further information visit basscoast.vic.gov.au/reconciliation
