Albury launches reconciliation plan

AlburyCity Council yesterday hosted a celebration to officially launch its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, which reaffirms Council’s commitment to reconciliation with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of the city and region.

Attendees included representatives from the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, local community organisations, members of Council’s RAP Working Group and External RAP Advisory Group, AlburyCity Councillors, as well as Government representatives.

They enjoyed a Smoking Ceremony performed by Darren Wighton, a Welcome to Country delivered by Aunty Edna, a performance by the Dinawan’s Connection, and took the opportunity to reflect on the positive steps being taken towards reconciliation in the community.

The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan is Council’s first plan of its kind, and was developed in close consultation with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

AlburyCity CEO, Frank Zaknich thanked those who had helped make the plan possible. 

“AlburyCity has a long and proud history of strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our community, and this plan is yet another step forward for our city in progressing meaningful reconciliation with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,” Mr Zaknich said.

“The plan demonstrates that we are one community, where respect and awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture is at the forefront of everything we do.”

Mayor, Kylie King said she feels blessed to be able to witness and take part in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

“To truly reconclie as a city, we must acknowledge and address the historical and current injustices, and champion change through positive and transformational action, with a clear focus on respect, relationships and opportunities,” she said.

“By reconciling our community, we can ensure the health, wellbeing, success and cohesion of Albury is shared with everyone.”

The plan can be viewed on the AlburyCity website.