THE Limestone Coast’s rich indigenous culture was celebrated as NAIDOC week was officially launched yesterday.
A large crowd gathered at the Cave Gardens yesterday morning for a flag-raising ceremony, which was a first for the city following a partnership between Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation and City Council.
The ceremony formed part of this year’s theme ‘voice, treaty and truth’, with 2019 the United Nations International Year of Indigenous Languages.
Burrandies chief executive Robyn Campbell said NAIDOC week was one for the South East community to celebrate together.
“Today’s event has been very special to us with City Council working together with us for the flag raising ceremony,” Ms Campbell said.
“The important thing for NAIDOC week this year is the theme of voice, treaty and truth which encourages us all to speak the truth about our history.
“The only way for us to all move forward is if we do it together and show that we all want to work together with government to move forward into a new future.”
Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said the day’s events recognised a significant moment in the city’s history.
“We had the honour to collaborate with Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation during the reception and the flag raising ceremony,” Ms Martin said.
“NAIDOC week is an important week across Australia and it is pleasing to see the amount of activities taking place across Mount Gambier over the week.
“The City of Mount Gambier will soon reach a milestone with the endorsement of a reconciliation action plan which will clearly define our vision of reconciliation.”
A range of activities will be held during the week, including a march through the heart of Mount Gambier on Friday.
The march will start at the Cave Gardens before heading towards the railway lands where Pangula Mannamurna will host a range of cultural activities.
