Reconciliation Spirit from the Awabakal to the University

Monday 30 May 2005

This year the University of Newcastle will celebrate Reconciliation Week in a different way than previous years, in that members of the Awabakal people will give artifacts to the University.

The Awabakal people are the traditional custodians of the land on which the University stands and in previous years, the University has celebrated the spirit of reconciliation with a welcome of members of the Indigenous community to the University, as well as a planting of hands, a flag raising ceremony and a walk for reconciliation.

The presentation of these artifacts to the University this year marks an understanding that for reconciliation to be truly effective, the spirit must flow both ways.

The event allows members of the University to join with Indigenous and other members of the wider community, to promote and celebrate Reconciliation.

"It will be an honour to receive these artifacts on behalf of the University," said Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders.

"This University has a strong commitment to honouring and supporting the culture and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people," he said

"We are dedicated to providing the best in Indigenous higher education and research and remain the leading trainer of Indigenous doctors in Australia."

"This event is significant in that the gifts offered to the University are a spear and shield; implements generally associated with conflict, but offered in peace and goodwill and signifying the trust and tradition of working together that has developed over the years between the Awabakal people and the University."

The Presentation will take place on Monday 30 May at 2.30pm in the Chancellery, Callaghan campus where the artifacts will be housed.

Photo opportunities available on the day.

For interviews contact Lori Parish, Indigenous Employment Coordinator on 02 4921 6387 or Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders on 02 4921 5101.