National Reconciliation Week gave SACA staff the opportunity to go 'All In' and listen, learn and reflect on the role we all play in advancing reconciliation.
Throughout the week, staff participated in a series of events designed to deepen understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and perspectives, while encouraging meaningful conversations about reconciliation in action.
National Reconciliation Week Breakfast
To commence the week, our RAP committee and guests enjoyed the morning at Reconciliation SA’s National Reconciliation Week Breakfast, one of Australia’s largest National Reconciliation Week events.
SACA staff were also invited to join an informal live stream shown at the SACA offices, creating an opportunity to reflect, connect, and continue the journey toward reconciliation.
The event featured a Smoking Ceremony by lan Sumner, Welcome to Country delivered by Uncle Moogy, and guest speakers, the Hon Kyam Maher MLC, Aunty Ros Cameron and Eddie Betts.
Exploring Culture Through Aboriginal Silk Painting
A highlight of the week was a contemporary Aboriginal Silk Painting workshop, led by Tjimari Sanderson-Milera of Kumarninthi.
The session gave staff the opportunity to take part in a hands-on cultural experience while learning about storytelling, creativity and cultural expression through Aboriginal art. The meaning behind two Silk Paintings were explored:
Akurra Pila Silk | 2 Creation Serpents (Adnyamathanha)
This is an important story of the creation and history of the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. The Akurras are a part of our Yurlu (Kingfisher man) Muda (creation) and is culturally significant to the Flinders Ranges and Adnyamathanha people.
Kumarninthi | Kaurna Yerta (Kaurna Country)
This silk represents Kaurna Country. Starting at the top of the wall hanging, the Adelaide Hills are represented with the many different earthy hues and various textures and patterns.
The workshop provided a unique space for conversations, learning and connection, giving staff the opportunity to experience cultural knowledge sharing in an engaging and meaningful way.
Conversations on Reconciliation in Practice
SACA concluded its National Reconciliation Week activities with a morning tea and panel discussion focused on what reconciliation means in practice.
The panel featured proud Aboriginal woman and cultural advisor to SACA’s RAP Working Group, Jade Wilson and Ngarrindjeri man, director of Ngarrindjeri Namawi Consulting, and cultural awareness educator, Clyde Rigney Jnr, alongside Chief Business Officer and Chair of SACA’s RAP Working Group, Andrew Sweet.
The discussion explored the importance of reconciliation, the role of Reconciliation Action Plans in driving meaningful change, and the progress and challenges that continue to shape Australia’s reconciliation journey.
Importantly, the session encouraged staff to consider how reconciliation can be supported through everyday action, both within the workplace and the broader community.
The week’s activities provided valuable opportunities for staff to learn from Aboriginal voices, engage with culture and reflect on how each of us can contribute to Australia’s reconciliation journey.
The second-term of SACA's Innovate RAP is currently in final revision stage, demonstrating SACA’s commitment to our reconciliation journey and to creating opportunities for learning, engagement and meaningful action throughout the year. Find out more about SACA Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) here.