National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time to pause, reflect and learn about First Nations culture together. It asks all Australians to think about our shared history and consider how we can walk forward in a way that’s more inclusive, respectful and united.
This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, reminds us that reconciliation isn’t a one-off event. It’s a journey. One that honours the past while pushing forward with purpose - building new paths grounded in understanding, action and genuine connection.
Reconciliation should be a continued conversation; not just acknowledged during Reconciliation Week, but one that remains front of mind, year on year.
We’re working towards a future where First Nations voices, stories and partnerships are deeply woven into the way our communities and industry operates. And we know we can’t do that on our own.
Listening, learning and walking on Country
This year, to mark Reconciliation Week, our teams took part in cultural tours across Victoria and New South Wales. These experiences gave our people the chance to step away from the usual day-to-day, get on Country, and learn from those who know it best.
In Victoria, we were guided through Coranderrk in Healesville by Uncle David Wandin, a proud Wurundjeri Elder and Cultural Practices Manager. As we walked through the bush, Uncle David shared stories that brought the landscape to life - stories of resilience, connection and culture. It was powerful, moving and a reminder of how much we still have to learn.
Our team in New South Wales took a slightly faster route, jumping on quad bikes to explore the stunning sand dunes of Worimi Country. With Traditional Custodians leading the way, we weaved through the bush, stopped to learn about traditional foods, listened to stories and took time to connect with the land in a meaningful way. It wasn’t just an adventure but a deep dive into the culture, history and identity of the land’s Traditional Custodians.
These weren’t once-off experiences; they’re part of something bigger. As part of our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), we’re committed to building real cultural understanding, creating long-term opportunities for Aboriginal people and embedding reconciliation into how we work, every single day.
Reconciliation matters to all of us
We’re incredibly proud to stand beside Wamarra, our Aboriginal-owned and operated civil contractor, led by Hayden Heta , a proud Wiradjuri man and Managing Director, who is leading the way when it comes to creating opportunities and driving change across the industry. Their work on Country and in the community is reconciliation in action, inspiring everyone across the Group to keep taking small steps to create even bigger change.
We know this isn’t a box to tick. Reconciliation is about showing up consistently. It’s about listening, learning, and growing, together.
And as we look ahead, we’re excited for what’s to come. Because ‘Bridging Now to Next’ means taking everything we’ve learned so far and using it to build something better.
Together.