Direct descendent of the traditional owners and Dumbleyung local, Grant Riley, performed the Welcome to Country with two Kulin student councillors also speaking at the event. Grant also explained that it is important that the culture and knowledge be passed onto the children and generations ahead. He further went on to explain that there were many territories across Australia and how his Grandfather's area extended through as far as Hyden with watering points being utilised across the area, including those around Kulin. Dumbleyung was the central point because of the lake.
In the lead up to the event, locals Grant and Anne Riley of Wuddi Cultural Tours, displayed an indigenous art exhibition in the Kulin Visitor Centre for anyone to view. The exhibition will be on display til the end of this week (June 9) and is free for anyone to view.
Reconciliation Week is recognised from May 27 to June 3 and is an annual celebration for all Australians to reflect on our shared history and the contributions and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The national event is bookended by two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey: May 27 marks the anniversary of Australia’s most successful referendum and June 3, Mabo Day (on this day in 1992 the high court legally recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples connection to the land).
For more information about the event contact the Kulin CRC on 9880 1204 or email admin@kulin.wa.gov.au
Pictured below numerous images of the Wuddi Art Exhibition at the Kulin Visitor Centre