First Nations Communities
Southern Grampians Shire Council operates on Gunditjmara, Jardwadjali, and Tjap Wurrung traditional lands.
These lands are cared for by Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs), which administer the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. Council have committed to building stronger relationships with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. By appointing a First Nations Community Engagement Officer, SGSC have seen the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan furthering our dedication to our community.
Photo: First Nations Engagement Officer, Staycee Charles.
Acknowledgement of Country
"Southern Grampians Shire Council acknowledges that our Shire is on the traditional lands of the Gunditjmara, Tjap Wurrung, Jardwadjali and Buandig people. We recognise the important ongoing role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have in our community and pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging."
Welcome to Country vs Acknowledgement of Country
Acknowledgement of Country
An acknowledgement can be done by any person, in the absence of a traditional owner.
An Acknowledgement of Country is a way to acknowledge and pay respect to First Nations peoples as the Traditional Owners and ongoing custodians of the land.
Welcome to Country
A Welcome to Country is always delivered by a local Traditional Owner or Elder who holds the authority and knowledge to share a welcome from a particular local region. This can be done through speech, dance, song or ceremony.
How to organise a Welcome to Country
Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation (Heywood)
Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (Warrnambool)
Barengi Gadjin Land Council (Horsham)
SGSC Reconciliation Action Plan
Southern Grampians Shire Council is currently developing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
There are four types of RAP themes: 'Reflect'; 'Innovate'; 'Stretch'; and 'Elevate'.
Council has a First Nations Officer who is facilitating Council's 'Reflect' RAP with the support of a working group, which oversees the implementation of the actions within the RAP.
Once Council has finalised the RAP, it will be sent to Reconciliation Australia for endorsement and it will be made available to the public.
National Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a week to honour First Nations history and culture by reconciling the connection throughout Australia.
NRW is an annual event held from 27 May – 3 June, two key dates in Aboriginal history - the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision.
As part of Southern Grampians Shire Council’s reconciliation journey, events are held during the week to engage and enjoy the culture of our First Nations people.
Homepage Featured Artwork - Jason Walker, Gunditjmara | Yorta Yorta
In the heart of the Southern Grampians is where the boundaries of Gunditjmara, Buandig and Jardwarli people lived for many thousands of years. This country cared for our people, as did our people care for country. It’s our obligation. This country is sacred and connects our mob. This country is where Bunjil soars above, ensuring we care for our country. This country is where earth meets the sky harmoniously where ancient mountains, waterways and trees dance.
This artwork represents country and the people who have lived and cared for it for many thousands of years. It is our obligation to care for country and listen to the people (Gunditjmara, Buandig, Jardwarli people).
Together, as we embark on a journey of healing, crafting a Reconciliation Action Plan that honors the past while paving the way for a brighter future. Let's reach out to the community, extending a hand of friendship and cooperation, eager to learn from knowledge and forge a bond that surpasses centuries of division.