Reconciliation Week 2023: Be a Voice for Generations

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all of us to reflect on the past, embrace diversity and move towards a more united future under this year’s theme “Be a Voice for Generations.” 

Across the country, Symal staff engaged in cultural tours from the streets to the sea, immersing themselves in a richer understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions and culture. 

The First Peoples exhibition, at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Melbourne Museum set the scene for cultural history before the team embarked on a city walking tour with Yalinguth.  

Our team heard powerful storytelling from proud Yorta Yorta man Jason Tamiru who passionately expressed the challenges and triumphs of Aboriginal people in the City of Melbourne over the years. We can’t change the past, but we can make a difference in the future. 

Over in NSW…….our team traversed the traditional landscape of the Worimi Sand Dunes in Port Stephens on an Aboriginal Cultural Quad Bike Riding tour. A unique experience to learn about the cultural significance of the region while deepening understanding of the local Indigenous heritage. 

We want to thank Hayden Heta, Managing Director of Wamarra and Chair of the Symal RAP Committee chair, for leading the charge to create a more inclusive environment as diverse as our communities. 

We strive to empower our people by encouraging their active participation in cultural awareness activities. Through this engagement, we aim to foster a greater understanding among our team members and continue our commitment to our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). 

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that recognises the value of both small steps and great strides. 

Melbourne Museum and Cultural Walking Tour 

Sand Dune Adventure Cultural Tour