General News
30 January, 2026
Reconciliation in practice
THE warm sun did not deter residents from coming together at Wombeech Puyuun Reconciliation Park to reflect on the area’s Indigenous history on Monday.
Between 30-35 people attended the gathering, organised by South West Reconciliation, and enjoyed the opportunity to share their opinions and commentary on the Indigenous history of the area.
South West Reconciliation’s Chris Warren said feedback was positive from the otherwise low-key event, with organisers pleased with attendance and the relaxed vibe of attendees.
“It set out to give people an opportunity to reflect on the day the different meanings it has for people,” he said.
“It was a little smaller than last year, but perhaps the weather turned people off.
“As we say, ‘the right people will be there’, and that’s certainly what happened.
“More people would be great, as will more different views and ideas and people talking together because that’s the goal.
“Everybody enjoyed the space, it wasn’t too hot and it was nice and shady.”
The event, now in its second year, saw many bringing their own picnic baskets and blankets to enjoy some conversations in the shade alongside a number of themed activities.
“It was mostly people bringing something to offer to the rest of the group– for example, Bob Lambell did a very good historical talk about the process of colonisation in our area and in a broader context, and how the Frontier Wars took place,” Mr Warren said.
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“There were demonstrative and interactive stories told that were designed to connect us with Country.
“There was also an opportunity for people to do some painting and drawing, learn a couple of words in the local language and participate in a couple of reflective readings.
“There was a walk around the circle of the garden which demonstrated the length of time Djargurd Wurrung people have been living on and caring for this country compared to the length of time of settlement and colonisation.
“There were also a lot of conversations where people were able to talk and discuss their thoughts on the celebration of Australia Day on that date, and I also heard some conversations about the lack of education on Indigenous issues.”
Mr Warren said he was pleased to see the younger generation was already on the road to increasing education on Indignenous issues, with early childhood educators in attendance sharing stories during the day’s events.
“There were comments about the park as there has been some progress in reversing some of the neglect of that place, but also some disappointment that more progress hasn’t been made,” he said.
“Not everybody who is involved in South West Reconciliation thinks the same, so we don’t have policies that say what the group thinks.
“There are people who have different understandings and different ideas within the group, so that’s a real strength of the group.
“Some people want to change the date for Australia Day, and other people don’t have a strong opinion – people can all get involved and don’t have to share the same thoughts.”
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