From drinking bush tea to dancing, this is how we recognised National Reconciliation Week

This year, the theme for NRW was ‘Now More Than Ever’. Given the outcome of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, this year’s theme was a reminder that it’s now more important than ever that, as a nation, we work collectively towards making a real and lasting impact on reconciliation and supporting all Australians.

Every year, South32 is proud to participate in NRW as a demonstration of our commitment to building strong and respectful relationships with our Indigenous and Tribal communities, wherever we operate.  From cultural dance performances at GEMCO to a Lunch and Learn at Cannington, we hosted a range of events and activities during NRW.

GEMCO

Bush Medijina, a local Indigenous business that South32 supports, hosted a workshop for our female employees to learn more about Anindilyakwa culture. The inspiring team of women from Bush Medijina use traditional bush recipes passed down through the generations to produce contemporary products including balms, soaps and body butter.  At the end of the workshop, the women connected over bush tea and damper making.

Over two evenings, GEMCO put on a women’s and men’s AFL football games and night markets for the local community, where Indigenous stall holders had the opportunity to showcase their products.

We also held a movie night for the local community, showing the feature film ‘Bran Nue Dae’ that was directed by a proud Arrente and Kalkadoon woman and based on Australia’s first Indigenous musical.

A specifically created (and delicious) Indigenous-inspired menu was served throughout the week for our people to enjoy, and a Welcome to Country with traditional dancers and music was performed one night in the dining area. 

Cannington

At Cannington we heard from Yulluna Traditional Owners, Monique Shepherd, Larinda Turrell, Vikki King and Lauralee Punch. They spoke at a Lunch and Learn event, sharing what reconciliation means to them and their thoughts on how we can work together towards a just and equitable Australia.

We also held a raffle to raise funds for Wall of Hands, an Indigenous charity supporting Indigenous Literacy and served an Indigenous-inspired menu throughout the week for our people to enjoy.

IMC

At our IMC operation, we handed out bush chocolates made by a local Indigenous business, as well as having NRW information stalls in break areas so our people could learn more about reconciliation.

Perth Headquarters and Worsley Alumina

People from our headquarters and Worsley Alumina, including our Chief Executive Officer, Graham Kerr and other members of our Lead Team joined the Walk for Reconciliation events in Boorloo (Perth) and Goomburrup (Bunbury).

Thousands of people stepped out to support reconciliation, with walks taking place in cities and towns across Australia.

Learn more about what reconciliation means to South32, click here.