Hands-on National Reconciliation Week celebration


An activity involving the creation of clay tiles with hand imprints will form part of National Reconciliation Week events in Tamworth's CBD next Wednesday 27 May.

The tiles will symbolise building stronger ties between Indigenous and non Indigenous communities in Tamworth. When complete they will be put on display in a public place and will act as a reminder to practice reconciliation on a regular basis.

Musical performances from Westdale Public School students and the Gomeroi Dance Company and a formal Flag Raising Ceremony will also form part of the event starting at 10am in the forecourt of Ray Walsh House on Peel Street.

Aboriginal Elder Bob Faulkner will give the Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony will be performed by Aboriginal Elder Len Waters before Tamworth Region Acting Mayor Russell Webb gives an address. Mr Faulkner and Cr Webb will raise the flag.

National Reconciliation Week is celebrated across Australia each year between 27 May and 3 June.

At a national level the week marks two important dates. May 27 is the anniversary of the 1967 referendum when Australians voted to remove clauses in the Australian Constitution which discriminated against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. June 3 marks the 1992 Mabo decision in which the High Court of Australia recognised native title.

At the local level the week provides a perfect opportunity to introduce the new Aboriginal Community Consultative Committee for the Tamworth Region which held its inaugural meeting in April 2015. Chairman Harry Cutmore will outline the committee's purpose and membership.

Cr Webb said National Reconciliation Week and events like the flag raising give a focus for all members of the local community to reflect on the importance of reconciliation. “All members of the community are welcome to attend. I would encourage participants to join the clay activity and press your palm on the clay to make a print,” he said.

“The theme for 2015, It's Time to Change It Up, is encouraging people to take some fresh action to spark a change in their school, workplace or community - no matter how big or small. This is a time to share culture, connect with community, stop racism and celebrate Indigenous success at every opportunity.”

For more information visit Tamworth Regional Council