Published on Thursday, 4 June 2026 at 2:50:28 PM
Community members gathered at the Child and Parent Centre Swan on Tuesday 2 June for the Shire’s National Reconciliation Week Breakfast, celebrating culture, connection and shared understanding.
Held as part of National Reconciliation Week, the event brought together residents, community leaders, elected representatives and local organisations to reflect on the importance of reconciliation and strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community.
The morning began with a Welcome to Country delivered by Aunty Di Ryder OAM, recognising the continuing connection of Aboriginal people to Country and setting the tone for a meaningful community gathering.
In her address, Aunty Di spoke about the importance of embracing and experiencing Noongar culture through language, art, music, dance and storytelling.
“Reconciliation is about embracing our Noongar culture and experiencing our language, our art, our music, and dance and our oral stories, all of which has been passed down by the old people through many generations,” Aunty Di said.
“For me, reconciliation is what we do really well in this community. We are always working towards supporting each other to build a stronger community.
“This day is where we see what can happen when a community works together with love, kindness and caring in the true spirit, and true heart of reconciliation.”
The event reflected the importance of acknowledging and respecting the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land.
Guests enjoyed breakfast and refreshments while taking part in a range of cultural activities throughout the morning. Activities included basket weaving led by Michelle Craig from Playgroup WA and Pauline, decorating biscuits and salt dough ornaments, and storytelling and music sessions for families and children.
Morditj Maaman performed traditional lullabies, while Nan Roma and Jax from Koorlangka Keniny shared nursery rhymes in Noongar language, helping young children and families connect with culture through song and storytelling.
Year 4 students from Middle Swan Primary School delivered a moving rendition of I Am Australian, accompanied by didgeridoo playing, which was warmly received by attendees.
Special guests included Aunty Di Ryder OAM, Dr Roma Winmar, Hon Klacy Hirst MLC, Shire of Mundaring Director Place and Community Megan Griffiths, Melanie Robinson from Perth Children's Hospital Aboriginal Health, Di Welsh representing Steve Catania MLA, Sheree and Rhianna from the National Indigenous Australians Agency, Katherine Hardwick and Liz Ashton from the Department of Education, and Frances Coventry, Principal of Middle Swan Primary School.
The breakfast provided an opportunity for people from across the community to come together, learn from one another and celebrate Aboriginal culture through music, language, storytelling and shared experiences.
National Reconciliation Week runs from 27 May to 3 June each year and provides an opportunity for Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements, while exploring how everyone can contribute to reconciliation.
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