2 April 2024

Healing through community connection

After months of planning, we were stoked to finally open the new Community Economic Hub in Morwell in March.

The new office is a commitment to promoting healing and connection within the Aboriginal community and beyond, and will become a resource to learn, connect and grow.

The launch kicked off with a heartfelt Welcome to Country from Uncle Lloyd Hood, followed by a smoking ceremony led by Michelle Dow and Shay Terrick.

Guests were treated to a deadly performance by the Boorun Boys dancers, who generously shared their cultural connection with the gathering.

The day was a chance for community to find out more about our cultural and employment initiatives, land management programs, and opportunities to showcase and sell Aboriginal products. And have we mentioned the great lunch that lunch courtesy of Laurie an the crew at Castle Park where Elders and kids alike enjoyed plenty of fun and food amongst friendly faces!

Gunaikurnai Ranger Shay Terrick credits his deepening understanding of culture to the eight years he has spent working at GLaWAC. “My goal now is to keep up my cultural journey and teach my daughters to be proud about who we are, where we come from and what we’re about.”

Troy McDonald, GLaWAC Chair, emphasised the space as a cornerstone for cultural exchange, education, and healing; a significant step in GLaWAC’s aspirations to support all Aboriginal people living on Gunaikurnai Country.

“A Traditional Owner Corporation really is just like a big family business. We’re all family so it’s important to be able to work toward a self-determining future that acknowledges everyone’s personal experiences.”

Thanks to everyone who joined us at the new GLaWAC Community Hub, and over at Castle Park, we appreciate you coming along and hope you had an awesome time.