In this week, NAIDOC week, I wanted to start with FRSA’s acknowledgement of country:
I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this land – here in Canberra – the lands of the Ngunnawal People.
I acknowledge the waterways, the land, the sky and all who inhabit this place, this Country.
I acknowledge their ancestors, and Elders and recognise those who continue to protect and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
I acknowledge the past and stand together with First Nations people in a true expression of reconciliation with hopes and aspirations for the future.
It was wonderful to see Adjunct Professor Muriel Bamblett Hon DLitt SW AO awarded the NAIDOC person of the year. Her life’s work dedicated to ensuring Aboriginal children are safe, strong and thriving and living a life rich, embedded and alive with culture were acknowledged. She is also a significant family violence advocate, adviser and campaigner. Her voice is of great importance in the current dialogue and discourse in society and we look forward to hearing much more from her in the year ahead.
As the week comes to a close, I look forward to bringing news in the next e-bulletin about the ways in which the FRSA members joined with their local communities to celebrate, observe and commemorate NAIDOC week – with the fabulous theme this year – “Keep the Firing Burning – Blak, Loud and Proud”.
