Manning Valley Australians for Reconciliation

There have been some notable joint partnerships forged over the years by the Manning Valley Australians for Reconciliation, the Manning Valley Aboriginal Education Consultative Group and Council. One of the most notable being the staging of the musical ‘Great South Land’ which involved some 200 students from local high schools.

The musical portrayed, through song and dance, historical events from both Aboriginal and European perspectives around 1788 and was then performed in Sydney where the NSW Premier Bob Carr was present. He was so impressed, that funds were allocated to have the musical filmed and issued to all schools in the state as part of their curriculum on reconciliation issues.

This is just one of the many highlights that the Manning Valley Australians for Reconciliation have been very active in. More recently, the groups’ efforts have concentrated on the Indigenous Achievement Awards. This presentation was first held in 1999 and is now an annual event enjoyed by over 250 people. The Manning Valley Indigenous Achievers Awards recognises outstanding individual achievement in the categories of male and female, adult and young achievers amongst the Aboriginal community.

Reconciliation is a people’s movement. It represents the hopes and aspirations of many Australians who desire justice and equity for Indigenous peoples in this country. In June 2004, the Manning Valley Australian's for Reconciliation Group assisted in the coordination of a peaceful protest march which demonstrated community support in favour of flying the Aboriginal flag on a daily basis at Council's Administration Centre. The marchers, who began at the top end of Manning Street and moved to Council Chambers in Pulteney Street, presented Deputy Mayor, Councillor Wendy McKeough with a petition signed by community members in favor of Council's impending decision to fly the Aboriginal flag on a daily basis.

At Council's Ordinary meeting, held Wednesday 18 August 2004, a recommendation to fly the flag on a daily basis was adopted.

Reconciliation is a long-term process that needs support and commitment from governments and communities.

New members are always welcome. Any one interested in joining the Manning Valley Australians for Reconciliation Group can obtain more information about doing so by contacting Council's Aboriginal Community Officer on 6592 5399.

Manning Valley Australian's for Reconciliation Group is a member of the NSW Reconciliation Council.