Wyndham celebrated Reconciliation Week 2022 with a series of events including community tree plantings, the launch of a new public artwork and First Nations songs and stories at Wyndham libraries.
Wyndham’s Welcoming City portfolio holder, Cr Jennie Barrera said: “Reconciliation Week is celebrated annually on the 27 May until 3 June every year. The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2022 is Be Brave. Make Change.”
“It is time for all of us to learn about our shared histories, culture and achievements and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation.”
“Reconciliation Week events across Wyndham City are a great opportunity for residents to participate in a range of activities to support and acknowledge Bunurong and Wadawurrung First Nations Peoples, as well as Australia’s entire Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.”
A community tree planting event was held on Saturday 28 May on Bunurong Country with the opportunity to give back to country by planting 2,000 native plants along Werribee river.
A new public artwork – ‘Mother Tongue’ – led by Gunditjmara artist Dr Vicki Couzens, was also launched on Saturday 28 May at Tarneit Community Centre, 150 Sunset Boulevard, Tarneit.
Dr Couzens collaborated with local artists from the Bunurong, African Diaspora, Bangla, Chin, Karen, Karenni, Maori, Indian and Sikh communities to create the new public artwork ‘Voice of the Land, Voice of the People, Voice of our Heart, Voice of Mother – Mother Tongue’.
The launch will began with a Bunurong Smoking Ceremony, speeches by the artistic team and delicious food by Pawa Catering.
Wyndham libraries are running ‘First Nations Songs and Stories in the Library’across each library in Wyndham during Reconciliation Week.
“We hear the challenge to Be Brave. Make Change and look forward to celebrating Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through our events right here in Wyndham,” Cr Barrera said.
Wyndham City is currently working towards its second Reconciliation Action Plan as our ongoing commitment to reconciliation. If you would like to be involved or want to know more contact please visit https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/reconciliation-action-plan-2022-2024
For more details on Reconciliation Week events in Wyndham City visit
