By Eve Lamb
With a theme like ‘Be Brave. Make Change’ this year’s Reconciliation Week aims to make a positive difference in the world.
And it got off to a strong start on that front in Castlemaine’s Botanical Gardens yesterday where well attended National Sorry Day event fired up with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country performed by Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Uncle Rick Nelson, followed by thought-provoking speeches in the rotunda.
All community members are invited to attend local Reconciliation Week events including today’s 10.30 am launch event at the Castlemaine Market Building, with speeches, Nalderun Awards and morning tea all on the program.
The annual exhibition, which includes photos, reading matter, and an information stall will be open in the Market Building daily until Sunday June 5.
Highlights of the week include films on May 26, 29 and 30, story time with Aunty Kerri Douglas at the library on June 1, and a conversation about white privilege on June 3, and a guided history walk with Uncle Rick Nelson.
The walk takes place on Thursday June 2 with limited places able to be booked through CHIRP Community Health.
The full programme is available at the Market Building and around town, as well as on the Nalderun and Mount Alexander Shire Council websites.