The journey continues…

This year the Opening welcomes you to country on Kincumba Mountain, with dance and music around the ceremonial fire circle. Join the circle and enjoy the entertainment with food. This is a non-alcoholic event with respect to the ceremonial significance.
Come back the next morning to the Awakening for the blessing.

12.30pm - 5.00pm   Community Gathering & Interactive Activities

·         Informal gathering and interactive multicultural activities including leatherwork, beading, traditional weaving.

·         Participants engage in activities at their own pace, creating a sense of community and cultural exchange.

·         The community gathering (picnic) serves as a prelude to the formal proceedings of the evening.

4.50pm – 5.30pm    Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony

·         The Smoking Ceremony symbolically commences at sunset, a time of transition and reflection.

·         Welcome message and overview of the ceremony (5mins)

·         Everyone is invited to walk through the smoke with reverence and reflect on the significance of the 5 Lands Walk, community, family, and our relationship with the natural world.

·         Yidaki and music playing in the background.

5.30pm – 7.00pm    Ceremonial Commencement

                                    Formal Welcome and Speeches (30 mins max)

·         Welcome to Country (Darkinjung LALC)

·         Speeches by dignitaries

·         The Messenger recites the 5 Lands Walk Message.

Aboriginal Dance Performance (30 mins max)

·         Gudjugang Dreaming

Storytelling with Bravewords (15 mins)

·         Introduction by Adrienne Ferreira (3-5 mins)

·         Storyteller TBA (10 mins)

Community and Sponsor Recognition

·         Clay Williamson, Vice President Community

Closing Remarks

·         Pauline Wright, President

7.00pm – 8.00pm    Entertainment and Relaxation

·         Live music by Aborigina band – Marungbang

·         Everyone is invited to stay, enjoy the music, and partake in food and drinks.

This structure provides a balance between formal ceremony, cultural exchange, reflection, and entertainment, all within a communal space that embodies the values and vision of the 5 Lands Walk – “connecting people to people and people to place.”

It also pays homage to the rich heritage of the Darkinjung and other First Nation peoples and encourages everyone to join the 5 Lands Walk journey and celebrate difference.