In a powerful demonstration of unity and cultural respect, hundreds of school students from across the Illawarra region of New South Wales have walked onto Dharawal country to celebrate reconciliation. This heartfelt event marks 25 years since the iconic walk over Sydney Harbour Bridge, a historic moment that ignited national awareness and dialogue.
More than 35 schools took part in the walk, aligning with this year’s theme: Bridging Now to Next. Their journey from the Warilla Surf Club to Reddall Parade was more than just a physical trek it was a vibrant act of community connection and cultural education. The students and teachers participated in a traditional smoking ceremony and a Welcome to Country, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of the land.
“It’s a brilliant opportunity to bring all the community together,” Uncle Darrell Brown told the media Team. “And more importantly, we’re teaching young kids both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal about Aboriginal culture.”
The significance of the Welcome to Country was beautifully explained by Yuin woman Maiquilla Brown. “When we do a Welcome to Country, we’re speaking to the ancestors who protect the country, saying, look we’re here, we’re visiting, please protect us,” she said.
Ms Brown, an Aboriginal community planner at Shellharbour City Council, highlighted the importance of understanding the true meaning behind these ceremonies. Recent debates around winding back Welcome to Country rituals often reveal a lack of awareness about First Nations traditions. “We’re not talking about welcoming people to Australia or a nation or a country as a whole,” she emphasized. “It’s about welcoming people into that small area of land or physical country, and all the cultural and spiritual connections to that area.”
This walk not only honors the land and its custodians but also inspires a new generation to carry forward the message of reconciliation, respect, and cultural understanding into the future.
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