It simply doesn’t make sense

Can we just talk straight?

January 26 is a difficult day for First Peoples, including Gunaikurnai clans.

This isn’t about opposing Australia or the rich, multicultural society it has become. The pain lies in celebrating on a date tied to the dispossession of First Peoples. For many, it simply doesn’t make sense.

Acknowledging this truth is not about blame. It is about understanding. Truth-telling helps us better understand our shared history so that we can move forward together with honesty, respect and care.

Gunaikurnai people have cared for this Country for tens of thousands of years, guided by deep cultural knowledge, law and responsibility. That connection has never been broken. Today, our work continues to focus on healing Country, strengthening culture and creating a future shaped by self-determination, dignity and respect.

We know people hold different views about this day. What matters is how we choose to engage with one another. Division does not move us forward. Listening, learning and respectful conversation do.

On this day, we invite reflection.
We invite understanding.
And we invite all who live and work on Gunaikurnai Country to walk this journey with us, because we are stronger when we move forward together, rather than apart.

And to all you mob out there, It’s ok if you need a bit of extra support today. Be sure to check-in on each other, stay off the socials, or at the very least, scroll on by!

Here are some links that can help:
13 Yarn : 13 92 76 (available 24/7)
Lifeline : 131114 or text 0477 131 114 (available 24/7)
Beyond Blue : 1300 224 636 (available 24/7)

And remember… Always was. Always will be.