Join the 2024 Reconciliation Week Community Walk

Published on 02 May 2024

Njernda Aboriginal Corporation, in partnership with Campaspe Shire Council and Victoria Police, invites community members to a Community Walk and Flag Raising Event to begin Reconciliation Week on 27 May.

Reconciliation Week occurs annually from 27 May – 3 June and aims to foster dialogue, strengthen bonds and encourages the wider community to embrace the rich cultural heritage of First Nations peoples while working towards a shared future.

The theme for National Reconciliation Week this year is Now More Than Ever which aims to remind us of the continuing need for justice, equality and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Njernda spokesperson and Yorta Yorta Elder, Uncle Keith Hearn said that the event offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow community members and learn from First Nations perspectives.

“Reconciliation Week is a time to reflect on the importance of reconciliation and take meaningful steps towards healing historical injustices and building respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians,” Mr Hearn said.

The community walk, from Alton Reserve to Hopwood Gardens is taking place from 10am on Monday, 27 May.

The walk will start with a smoking ceremony, then the walk from Alton Reserve along Hare Steet, and Murray Esplanade, to Hopwood Gardens ending with a Welcome to Country and flag-raising ceremony.

Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Rob Amos echoed Mr Hearn’s sentiments and said he looked forward to walking alongside many community members to kick off Reconciliation Week.

“Last year we had a fantastic turn out for this event and I encourage community to participate once again.

“By walking together and raising the flags, we demonstrate our collective dedication to building a more inclusive and harmonious society in the ongoing journey of reconciliation,” Mayor Amos said.