Understanding more about each other - My Acknowledgement of Country

I’ve recently read this Acknowedgement of Country at two AHRI events.

In the spirit of Reconciliation Week, and this year’s theme, “Bridging Now to Next,” I want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of connection. 

Connection to land, culture, and one another. If we are to truly move forward together, we need to understand more about each other and challenge unconscious bias.

In preparing this acknowledgement, I sought advice from my friend Kristal Kinsela - a proud Jawoyn and Wiradjuri woman, respected First Nations business leader, and 2017 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year - pretty impressive huh!

Kristal encouraged me to share something of myself, to ensure that this moment is not tokenistic, but personal, meaningful, and grounded in respect.

So here goes.

I was born in Darlinghurst, Sydney, on Gadigal land. My father is Italian, my mother is Australian, and I’ve always been fortunate to have a strong connection to family. Something I value deeply.

Today, I live on Awabakal and Worimi Country. Newcastle is Saltwater Country, where we are surrounded by beautiful coastlines and strong community networks. It’s where my husband and I are raising our two sons, and where we are lucky to rest and play near the ocean.

While I am not an Aboriginal woman, I recognise that this is not my Country. I am a visitor who has come to love and respect these lands, waters, and rivers.

I respectfully acknowledge the Awabakal and Worimi Peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this Country. I honour their deep and continuing connection to land, sea, and community and their strength in caring for Country across generations.

I pay my respects to Elders past and present, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Maarumbu – thank you.