Geelong Sustainability and Common Ground Project would like to acknowledge that our event was held on Wadawurrung Country, and that sovereignty of these lands was never ceded. We pay respects to elders past, present and emerging.
Our July community event was held in honour of NAIDOC Week, which pays homage to the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Geelong Sustainability was thrilled to have Corinna Eccles from Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation as a guest speaker for the evening. Her presence added a special significance to the event, acknowledging the importance of reconciliation and understanding the local indigenous heritage.
Corinna took the stage to share her profound insights, focusing on storytelling, the history of the local area and its people, and the celebration of culture. Through her captivating narratives, she emphasised the value of preserving and sharing stories that connect people to their land and heritage. These stories are essential for fostering unity and learning from the past to shape a better future.
During her address, Corinna spoke passionately about her vision for the future, particularly regarding reconciliation and caring for the land in the face of the ongoing climate emergency. Her dedication to building a strong foundation for reconciliation and sustainable practices resonated deeply with the attendees. As custodians of the land, the message of caring for Country served as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility we all share in safeguarding the environment.
A key highlight of Corinna’s speech was her advocacy for a Voice to Parliament for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This call for constitutional recognition and a formal mechanism to ensure Indigenous voices are heard and respected struck a chord with everyone present. As attendees, we were reminded of the importance of empowering all voices to influence decisions that impact the future of the land we call home. At the conclusion of her address, Corinna received a well-deserved standing ovation.
Adding to the evening’s magical atmosphere, the Geelong Climate Choir performed heartwarming songs that echoed themes of environmental conservation and unity. The audience was encouraged to join in, creating a sense of harmony and togetherness that aligned with the spirit of the event.
Geelong Sustainability remains grateful to the City of Greater Geelong for their support in this series, and would also like to thank all attendees, volunteers, Board members and staff. Together, we are moving towards a future where sustainability and reconciliation intertwine, paving the way for a more harmonious and caring society.