It is National Reconciliation Week and this year’s theme is ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action’, which urges the reconciliation movement towards braver and more impactful action.

Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and importantly as a nation. Here on the Coast I have observed our community’s passion aboutrecognising and  celebrating the history, cultures and achievements of our local First Nations peoples.

2021 marks twenty years of Reconciliation Australia and almost three decades of Australia’s formal reconciliation process. The Central Coast in particular is home to a growing First Nations peoples community including many talented young people, and Council is committed to providing opportunities for reconciliation and celebration to happen.

It is wonderful to be able to hear stories of our First Nations peoples and experience their work through important initiatives such as Maliga, and featured markets and exhibitions at our galleries.

It is important to mark Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week and I encourage everyone to enjoy the artworks on display across the Coast.

The Central Coast encompasses a rich Aboriginal and non-Indigenous history – this is what makes our community unique and should be celebrated holistically.