Celebrating our diversity

It was a celebration of Rockingham-Kwinana’s diversity on Tuesday as not-for-profit group Anglicare WA and the City of Rockingham joined together with Aboriginal organisations to mark National Reconciliation Week.

Anglicare executive general manager John Berger said reconciliation was an “ongoing process”.

“The process of reconciliation is ongoing — it is a long process and it takes time but we are committed to the journey that we are on,” he said.

“It is fantastic to see so many people who share a passion for reconciliation attend this event — it allows for wider discussion about reconciliation in the community.”

Mr Berger said as a society it was important to acknowledge the past and work together on a “journey of the heart”.

“I think we are on the right track, but we need to encourage others to rethink their position,” he said.

“I hope that by talking today we can encourage others to follow.”

Representatives from community organisations such as Babbigur Mia, Moorditj Koort, Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre Kwinana, South Coastal Women’s Service and more enjoyed a special lunch and presentations from Mayor Barry Sammels and Mr Berger.

Elder Lindsay Calyun, who welcomed visitors with a special welcome to country, said he had attended similar events and was pleased to see Aboriginal and non-indigenous people unite for the event. “It’s good to see white people and Noongars come together,” he said.