Redland City Council representatives have joined Indigenous leaders and community members in Brisbane to mark 18 years since the National Apology to Australia’s First Nations people.
The anniversary event was held on Friday 13 February at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and provided an opportunity for reflection on the significance of the National Apology, recognition of the resilience of the Stolen Generations, and a focus on truth telling, healing and connection.
Guest speakers included the Honourable Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Indigenous leader Olga Havnen AM and Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Commissioner Natalie Lewis.
Council officers attended the event in line with commitments under Redland City Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan, which aims to provide staff with opportunities to increase their cultural knowledge and understanding.
Redland City Acting Mayor Julie Talty said Council had an important role to play in the reconciliation journey at the local level and had set goals in the new Corporate Plan – Our Future Redland City – aimed at recognising and celebrating the city’s Quandamooka culture.
“Priorities in the plan, which is due to take effect in July, include delivering and supporting cultural awareness initiatives, storytelling and events; and supporting reconciliation by maintaining and building respectful partnerships with Quandamooka leaders in the community,” Cr Talty said.
Council was represented at the Brisbane event by Indigenous Partnerships and Program Coordinator Brett Nutley and Group Business Support and Research Officer Bee Elferink.
“Attending the event presented an opportunity to connect with Indigenous leaders and speak to other guests about the work Council is doing to progress reconciliation on Redlands Coast, particularly through our partnerships and programs,” Mr Nutley said.
“Having worked previously with one of the hosts of this event, I know first-hand the positive impact these organisations have in supporting our First Nations communities.”
The National Apology, delivered on 13 February 2008, acknowledged the hardships caused to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through past government policies and positions and marked an important step in Australia’s reconciliation and truth-telling journey.
The anniversary continues to serve as an opportunity for Australians to reflect on the nation’s shared history and move forward together.
The 18th anniversary event was presented by Queensland Performing Arts Centre and Link-Up (Qld).
