Moruya’s Australia Day local events
Australia in Moruya started with a BBQ in Russ Martin Park organised by Moruya Lions and Moruya Rotary, with a welcome to country by Bunja Smith, flag raising, award announcements and tasty lamb sausages. Congratulations to the Moruya District Citizens of the Year Citizen of the year – Gwennett Dunkley, Young Citizen of the Year – Aimee Mehl, Community Hero – Jenny Jeffery.
The announcements were followed by an address by John Gillet.
Bridge Walk with Connecting Communities
Later in the day around 250 people gathered to walk across the Moruya Bridge in a show of solidarity and unity, acknowledging the shared struggles of First Peoples locally and around the globe.
The event was called “dhari – ng bulwal” which means Together We Stand Strong in the local indigenous dhurga language.
The gathering was held on Walbunja and Brinja-Yuin Country and was a celebration of indigenous culture, acknowledging the effects of colonialization on First Nations people.
The 26th January can be a difficult day for many Australians. The Connecting Communities group wanted to bring people together, working towards acknowledgement, healing and moving forward together. The family friendly day was inclusive for all ages and walks of life, with song, dance and storytelling.