Community stories: 17 July 2024
This article is a personal reflection from our IRCF Program Facilitator in Ulladulla, Monique.
Over the past five years, the IRCF program has woven a rich tapestry of community growth and cultural understanding through an array of touchpoints, workshops, group discussions, events and training sessions. These have allowed community members to network and learn a little bit more about our local Indigenous culture.
As the Ulladulla Community Facilitator, I’ve had the privilege of participating in numerous Welcome to Country ceremonies, each one deepening my appreciation for our connection to this beautiful land and its traditional custodians. I have also enjoyed hearing many community members personalising their Acknowledgements of Country and learning about their connection to this beautiful Yuin nation.
Some of my memorable experiences with community members include:
- Participating in my first smoking ceremony to officially open the High School Sanctuary;
- Witnessing artist Nicole Smede sing in the Dhurga language where her beautiful voice resonated with the spirit of our culture, reminding us of the importance of preserving endangered languages as well as endangered species;
- Didgeridoo meditation with Matt King;
- Standing barefoot, with my hand being painted in ochre;
- Listening to Elders speak about the endangered Black Cockatoo;
- The moving sounds of clapsticks; and
- The graceful dances and storytelling that provided deep insights into Indigenous traditions.
I have also enjoyed sitting in circle with the Ulladulla Yarning Mob to explore how we can help them connect to cultural practices, as well as discussing with local groups how they can learn more about culture and support our local Indigenous service providers.
Throughout our road mapping, workshops, and discussions, we embraced the ancient practice of ‘Sitting in Circle.’ This method, rooted in Indigenous cultural ways, ensures everyone has an equal seat at the table, fostering safe spaces for discussion and allowing for the sharing of passions and perspectives. One local resident, Webby from Lake Conjola, commented that this inclusive hosting method made him feel ‘safe and heard’ and encouraged him to explore various community activities.
Sitting in Circle has also empowered our community to bravely tackle important and difficult conversations. We’ve explored collective needs over individual priorities. Exploring ways to support local Indigenous and other minority groups through our community vision and principles, conversations, offers of support and actions.
I am grateful for the opportunities the IRCF program has provided, allowing myself and many community members to continue our lifelong journey of learning about Indigenous culture. My heartfelt thanks go to the local Indigenous community members who have generously answered our questions, supported and inspired our learning.
