May 27, 2019

UOW celebrates Australia's first peoples

The University of Wollongong (UOW) will host a series of events to continue a rich tradition in celebrating Reconciliation Week. 

Australians will mark National Reconciliation Week from 27 May to 3 June.

This year’s theme is, ‘Grounded in Truth, Walk Together with Courage’.

UOW Pro Vice-Chancellor (Inclusion and Outreach) Paul Chandler said the University’s strong relationship with the Indigenous population has enriched the entire Institution.

“Our Indigenous students and academics bring with them deep cultural connections with the land, seas and environment,” Pro Vice-Chancellor Chandler said.

“It takes courage to share this knowledge across cultures, and at UOW we are flanked with courageous, Indigenous people who want to enrich the community they live in.

“This week, UOW will host its biggest, best Reconciliation Week on record with lots of activities on campus and in the community. Come and join in the fun and reflect together.”

The University launched Reconciliation Week early with a guest lecture from Indigenous academic Dr Cathy Richardson on Friday, 24 May. Dr Richardson talked about social justice, based on her work with Indigenous communities in Canada.

In the upcoming week there will be a special screening of Rabbit-Proof Fence for students at Koolabong Village, a reconciliation feast, a community walk, bush tucker walks and Aboriginal art workshops.

WHAT'S ON AT UOW FOR NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

UOW Reconciliation feast, including bush tucker, a BBQ and Indigenous entertainers
When: Wednesday, 29 May, 2019, 11.30am to 1.30pm
Where: McKinnon Lawn, University of Wollongong
Who: Organised by Woolyungah Indigenous Centre

Reconciliation walk
When: Friday, 31 May, 2019, from 9am
Where: Walking from Holy Spirit High School to Bellambi Primary School
Who: About 2000 people are expected to attend, including UOW staff. All Woolyungah Indigenous Centre staff will be walking alongside UOW Pro-Vice Chancellor, Paul Chandler

Bush tucker walk
When: Thursday and Friday, 30-31 May, 2019, from 11.30am to 12.30pm
Where: A tour of the University Campus, Wollongong, starting at Early Start at Building 21.
Who: Pre-school aged children will tour with Koori experts and Early Start supervisors. Media are invited to attend for a photo opportunity.

Koori art workshop
When: Saturday, 1 June, 2019, 10am to 11am and 11.30 to 12pm
Where: At Early Start, Building 21 at the University of Wollongong.
Who: Pre-school aged children and accompanying adults. The workshop will be delivered by Nin and Nate, a collaboration between local Aboriginal designer Linda Kennedy and local Aboriginal dancer and choreographer Nathan Leslie. Media are invited to attend for a photo opportunity.