Horsham Rural City Council is rallying around this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme “Be a Voice for Generations” with multiple activities planned across the municipality.
Held from May 27 to June 3, National Reconciliation Week “encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways”.
“(This week) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia,” Reconciliation Australia said.
For the entirety of National Reconciliation Week, Firebrace Street and Sawyer Park will be temporarily renamed. Firebrace Street will become Yangga Tyerrang Street (“Walk Together”) and Sawyer Park will become Warta Tyerrang Muwil Park (“Come Together All”).
Yangga Tyerrang Street will also feature National Reconciliation Week Banners and Town Entrance Signs will be installed on Natimuk Road, Dimboola Road, Dooen Road and O’Callaghans Parade.
Colouring activities for children will be available at Horsham Town Hall and Kalkee Road Children’s and Community Hub.
Horsham Town Hall will host a morning tea on Friday, May 26 at 10.30am to recognise Sorry Day and the start of National Reconciliation Week. A Cultural Awareness Training session will also be hosted at no cost for community members on Monday, June 5.
A Creative Voice/Creative Generations Reconciliation Week Event featuring Wotjobaluk artists and artwork will be held at the Natimuk Soldiers Memorial Hall on Sunday, June 4 from 5pm to 8pm.
“National Reconciliation Week is a time to come together as a community and celebrate Indigenous people,” Mayor Robyn Gulline said.
“This week is about cultural understanding, acceptance and reconciliation.
“The theme this year is “Be a Voice for Generations” and I think that is more relevant now than ever- let’s reflect on our history and treatment of Indigenous people while working towards a better future.”