Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

Willoughby City Council Vision for Reconciliation

Our Vision for Reconciliation is to honour the profound history and diverse cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We commit to the principles of truth, understanding, and education as we embrace our rich cultural heritage.

Together, we will work towards fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable society that benefits all.

Welcome to Country

A Welcome to Country is a formal ceremony performed by an elder or a recognised representative of the Traditional Custodians of the land. It is a cultural protocol that offers permission for visitors to enter and engage with the land.

The ceremony acknowledges the spiritual and ongoing connection between the Traditional Custodians and their Country.

Welcome to Country may vary depending on the local customs of the Traditional Custodians. It may include:

• A speech of welcome.
• Traditional music, singing, or dancing.
• Smoking ceremonies (to cleanse and protect).

Acknowledgement of Country

Acknowledging Traditional Custodians is an important practice that shows respect for the First Nations peoples, their cultures, and ongoing connection to the land, water and community.

Two basic points about an Acknowledgement of Country is to ensure that you acknowledge the Aboriginal clan and country for where you are meeting

• It can be delivered by anyone, including non-Aboriginal people.
• It can be given at the beginning of a meeting, speech, or event.

Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council

The Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC) is one of the largest and most active Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) in New South Wales, Australia. The MLALC are based in Redfern and Willoughby City Council LGA is within the catchment of their service provision.

Phone: 02 8394 9666

Email: metrolalc@metrolalc.org.au

Aboriginal Heritage Office

The Aboriginal Heritage Office (AHO) is an award-winning initiative formed by collaboration between six local Sydney councils: Lane Cove, Ku-ring-gai, Northern Beaches, Strathfield, North Sydney, and Willoughby City Council.

The AHO works to protect Aboriginal sites and promote Aboriginal history and heritage within these councils. Its activities focus on three key areas: site management, council support, and education.

Email: AHO@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Phone: 02 8495 5066 Monday to Friday

Gai-mariagal Festival

The Gai-mariagal Festival is an annual event held in the Northern Sydney region that celebrates and showcases the rich culture, history, and traditions of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It brings together local communities, artists, performers, and educators to share their stories, celebrate cultural diversity, and promote reconciliation.

The Gai-mariagal Festival is centred around Sorry Day, National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week. 

It offers an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn about Indigenous culture, foster greater understanding, and celebrate the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to Australia’s cultural fabric.

For more information, please visit the Gai-mariagal Festival website.