Our last newsletter focussed on the federal election and campaigning for candidates to commit to progressing key concerns for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We congratulate the Labor government and hope that they will follow through their commitment to continue to work in partnership with First Nations communities to tackle the issues that will make a difference to peoples’ lives. antar.org.au/resources/2025-federal-election-scorecard/
In the last week, our focus has turned to the ACT, with Thomas Emerson introducing a motion for a Board of Enquiry into First Nations deaths in custody in the ACT. It was encouraging that this motion was supported by all parties. You can read more about this enquiry at: Bereaved mothers seek answers as they welcome proposed inquiry into treatment of Indigenous detainees – ABC.
In the next month, there are a number of key events, first Sorry Day with the Bridge Walk on Friday 23 May, then Reconciliation Week from 27 May. We will have a stall at the festival on Reconciliation Day, 2 June – please come and say hello.
The National Reconciliation Week (NRW) 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future. Bridging Now to Next calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.
ANTaR ACT Organising Group
The next meeting of the ANTaR ACT organising group will be at 6pm on Monday 9 June (note this is the Kings Birthday long weekend), on Zoom, as we will meet online over winter. If you would like to join us and be involved in our ongoing advocacy and actions, please RSVP to: info@antaract.org.au.
Frontier Wars
ANTaR ACT members attended the Frontier Wars March on Anzac Day. With a smaller contingent this year, we waited by the roundabout and crossed over to the parade ground after the official march ended. A delegation then laid wreaths at the memorial. For more about the Frontier Wars March, see Sovereign Union calls Frontier Wars Commemorative March for ANZAC Day – NIT.
Events coming up
Yuma Yarn Workshop
Thursday 15 May, 5.30-7.30, Canberra Spinners and Weavers, Chifley (also 8 July, 12 July, 14 September and 29 November, various venues)
Learn step by step, basic coil weaving techniques while enjoying wonderful live music. These yarning workshops are open to anyone – no experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided. Wiradjiri artist Rechelle Turner will introduce you to the joyful meditative practice of slow-stitched coiled weaving. Using raffia, she will help you to master making a center and growing and shaping your own coiled piece. As you weave, Murawari musician Belle Whyte will perform, sharing her cultural stories along with Rechelle. She will be joined by a different First Nations musician at each session.
For more information and bookings (cost involved) see: tuggeranongarts.com/rechelle-turner-amp-belinda-white-yuma-yarn-2025/.
National Sorry Day Bridge Walk
Friday 23 May, 10am for 10.30, from Regatta Point, Parkes (Corner of Albert St and Barrine Dr)
The National Sorry Day Bridge Walk represents the journey of healing and justice that
Stolen Generations members continue to face. It is a community event that will bring the ACT community together to pay our respects and commemorate the history of forcible removals and its ongoing impacts on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Featuring: Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony, schools banner competition, free BBQ, entertainment.
Djaarmby Band
Saturday 24 May, 8pm, Smiths Alternative, Melbourne Building, 76 Alinga St, Canberra
Djaarmby Band are Oz rock mixed with didgeridoo and traditional lyrics, Indigenous rock, folk, pop band with tribal voices and didgeridoo.
For more information and bookings: Djaarmby Band – Smiths Alternative.
Bridging Now to Next: Cultivating Cultural Safety and Reconciliation in Community Sector Workplaces
Tuesday 27 May, 9.30-11.30am, Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway
ACTCOSS and the Gulanga Program are hosting a National Reconciliation Week event for community sector organisations to learn about cultivating cultural safety and reconciliation in the workplace. This panel session will emphasise how cultural safety and reconciliation practices today lay the groundwork for inclusive and equitable workplaces of the future. The panel will feature Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, recruitment experts and community workers discussing practical strategies for creating culturally safe environments.
For more information and registration (not required but encouraged for catering purposes), see: Reconciliation Week Community Sector Event – ACTCOSS.
First Nations Experiences of Democracy Tour
Daily, Tuesday 27 May to Tuesday 3 June, 11am-12noon, Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
On this tour you will hear stories of how First Nations Australians have created change. Learn about the Wiradjuri elders who travelled 150km to attend the opening of Old Parliament House. Hear about the activists who campaigned for a voice in Federal Parliament and the accomplishments of Neville Bonner, the first Aboriginal Australian to be elected to parliament. Visit heritage spaces including the Prime Minister’s Office and the Senate Chamber and learn about the contributions of activists like Wenten Rubuntja, Charlie Perkins and Faith Bandler.
For more information (free, bookings required): www.reconciliation.org.au/event/first-nations-experiences-of-democracy-tour/ and First Nations Experiences of Democracy Tour – moadoph.ticketing.
Reconciliation Week highlights tour
Daily, Tuesday 27 May to Tuesday 3 June, 1.00-1.45pm, National Portrait Gallery
In observance and celebration of National Reconciliation Week, our free highlights tours will focus on some of the remarkable, resilient, and inspirational Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on display, exploring our shared histories, cultures, and achievements.
For more information (bookings available): www.portrait.gov.au/calendar/reconciliation-week-highlights-tour-2025
Science, Country and Community: Indigenous Knowledges challenging the system
Wednesday 28 May, 5.30pm–7.00pm, The Shine Dome Canberra, and livestream
Join us for an evening of conversation and connection, as the Australian Academy of Science hosts a special event to celebrate National Reconciliation Week at the Shine Dome. Guiding the evening as MC is Tiahni Adamson, a proud Torres Strait Islander woman, marine scientist and passionate advocate for Indigenous-led climate action. This event brings together Dr Katrina Wruck, Associate Professor Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch and Dr Mitchell Gibbs – three leading Indigenous researchers and community advocates whose work is grounded in cultural knowledge, innovation and community connection.
For more information and registration (free event): www.science.org.au/news-and-events/events/celebrating-national-reconciliation-week.
PANEL TALK: Reconciliation Week – Djara and First Nations Sky Stories
Thursday 29 May, 6pm, Canberra Museum & Gallery
Moderated by Professor Brian Schmidt, join artist Lynnice Letty Church (Ngunnawal, Wiradjuri, and Kamilaroi peoples), educator Tyronne Bell (Ngunawal) and astrophysicist Peter Swanton (Gamilaraay and Yuwaalaraay peoples) as they share First Nations sky knowledge with us.
The OuterSpace and Djara exhibitions will be open at 5.30pm before the talk to allow guests to see the exhibitions prior to the panel talk beginning at 6:00pm.
For more information and bookings (cost involved), see: www.cmag.com.au/events/panel-talk-reconciliation-week-djara-and-first-nations-sky-stories.
Our Story: Aboriginal–Chinese People in Australia: Exhibition opening and panel conversation
Thursday 29 May, 6 – 7.30pm, National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula
In celebration of Reconciliation Week, join us for the opening of Our Story: Aboriginal–Chinese People in Australia, an exhibition that sheds light on the fascinating history of Aboriginal and Chinese relations in colonial Australia. This special event features a panel conversation facilitated by National Museum of Australia First Nations Deputy Director, Dr Jilda Andrews, featuring exhibiting artists Gordon Hookey and Jenna Lee along with exhibition curator Zhou Xiaoping.
The exhibition will be open for viewing following the panel discussion.
For more information (free, bookings required for opening event): www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/our-story.
Yunggabilli First Nations Open Mic | 2025
Thursday 29 May, 5.30-7pm, Tuggeranong Arts Centre (also 26 June, 18 September and 27 November)
The Yunggabilli Open Mic night is an opportunity for emerging First Nations musicians to perform in a safe and nurturing space, try out new work and jam with other musos. This new initiative has been developed in consultation with Gugan Gulwan and Yil Lull Studios (ANU School of Music).
For more information (free event), see: tuggeranongarts.com/yunggabilli-open-mic/.
Friday Art Talks: How to Look at Art Through Culture
Friday 30 May, 12-1pm, National Gallery of Australia (Gallery 3, level 1)
Join First Nations Educators, Maggie Douglas, Kabi Kabi people, and Noah Watson, Butchulla & Kuku-Yalanji peoples, for a talk in Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia.
Maggie and Noah will share approaches to looking at First Nations art through the lens of culture. This approach centers First Nations voices and through conversation, encourages attendees to celebrate the vibrant living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and embrace the diversity of First Nations art practice.
For more information about the talk (free, no bookings required but capacity is limited), see: nga.gov.au/events/how-to-look-at-art-through-culture/.
For more information about the ongoing exhibition, see: nga.gov.au/exhibitions/ever-present/.
Reconciliation Day public event
Monday 2 June, 10am to 3pm, Commonwealth Park
A free, family-friendly day of music, performances, conversation, and food, celebrating the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Kobie Dee, internationally renowned rapper and master storyteller, is the headline act.
ANTaR ACT will have a stall – with information about our campaigns and selling books by First Nations authors and other items from First Nations businesses.
For more information: reconciliation.events.canberra.com.au/.
Art Lab with Haus of Dizzy
Monday 2 June, 10.30am and 2pm, Tim Fairfax Learning Studio, National Gallery of Australia
Art Labs is a series of artist-led workshops connecting young audiences with artists, artmaking and the National Gallery’s collection. In this Art Lab, upcycle and bling out your pre-loved clothes with the ‘Queen of Bling’, Wiradjuri designer Kristy Dickinson of Haus of Dizzy. Create one-of-a-kind wearable art using a range of materials and techniques including DTF transfers, fabric painting, iron-on patches, bedazzling and badge making. All art materials provided. Ages 13 to 18.
For more information (free but bookings essential): nga.gov.au/events/art-lab-with-haus-of-dizzy/.
Friday Art Talks: Adam Ford on Kulata Tjuta
Friday 6 June, 12-1pm, National Gallery of Australia (Gallery 15, level 1)
Join Adam Ford, Nyoongar (Menang/Goreng), Associate Curator, First Nations Art, for a talk in the exhibition Kulata Tjuta: Tirkilpa.
In this talk, Adam will speak about the Kulata Tjuta (Many Spears) Project, a cultural maintenance project that shares the skills of carving and making the punu kulata (wooden spear) across generations. Adam will focus on the ongoing cultural significance of the punu kulata for Aṉangu men from across the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands.
For more information about the talk (free, no bookings required but capacity is limited), see: nga.gov.au/events/adam-ford-on-kulata-tjuta/.
For more information about the ongoing exhibition, see: nga.gov.au/exhibitions/kulata-tjuta-tirkilpa/.
Rechelle Turner & Megan Daley | From Country exhibition
Opening Friday 13 June, 6pm, Tuggeranong Arts Centre
A collaborative art exhibition by Megan Daley (Ngunnawal/Wiradjuri) and Rechelle Turner (Wiradjuri) that delves into their deep-rooted connection to Country and the timeless stories it holds. The exhibition is a continuation of their artistic partnership and the vision behind their emerging fashion label, Corella & Crow, which celebrates the resilience and beauty of Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri cultures. Through textiles, storytelling, and visual art, From Country invites audiences to experience the layers of heritage, identity, and belonging that inspire Megan and Rechelle’s creative journey, honouring the landscapes, wisdom, and spirit of country that shape and sustain their work.
For more information (free exhibition): tuggeranongarts.com/rechelle-turner-megan-daley-from-country-13-jun-9-aug/.
Friday Art Talks: Tina Baum on Indigenising Museum Practices
Friday 20 June, 12-1pm, National Gallery of Australia (Gallery 2, level 1)
Join Tina Baum, Senior Curator, First Nations Art, Gulumirrgin (Larrakia)/Wardaman/Karajarri peoples, for a talk focused on Indigenising museum practices. Using the exhibition Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia as a case study, Tina will speak about how she is working to embed First Nations language and culture into all aspects of museum practice.
For more information about the talk (free, no bookings required but capacity is limited), see: nga.gov.au/events/tina-baum-on-indigenising-museum-practices/.
Ngunawal Language Workshops and on Country tours
Next Language workshop: Sunday 6 July, 10am-12noon
Through his company Thunderstone, Ngunawal Traditional Custodian Tyronne Bell runs workshops so Canberrans can learn about Ngunawal language and country.
The list of upcoming public workshops and tours is available at: www.thunderstone.net.au/book-online.
Ngunawal Language Workshop (public workshop 6 July): Learn an Acknowledgement of Country in Ngunawal language – the language of the traditional inhabitants of the ACT and surrounds. At the end of the session we hope you will feel confident to deliver the Acknowledgement of Country in Ngunawal language on Ngunawal Country.
Ngunawal on Country tours (public tours scheduled for September and November): Tyronne shares cultural knowledge and history through interpretation of the landscape, connection to Country and stories. Depending on the location, learn about bush foods, scarred trees, artefacts/stone tools and local practices.
There are also language workshops and on country tours in May and June that are free for ACT environmental volunteers (those who are registered as a volunteer with the ParkCare, Urban Parks and Places, or Waterwatch programs). See this link for details: www.eventbrite.com/cc/act-environmental-volunteers-training-4259703.
ANTaR ACT acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which Canberra is situated, the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region. We also acknowledge other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who may visit this area.