General News
31 May, 2025
Reconciliation walk bridging now to next
Dozens of community members joined Horsham Rural City Council’s Reconciliation Walk on Wednesday, May 28, marking National Reconciliation Week with a strong show of support.
The walk began at the Horsham Aquatic Centre car park and concluded at the meeting place by the river, followed by a ceremony and barbecue lunch.
Council staff, representatives from GWM Water, Victoria Police, Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative, and a large number of First Nations people attended the event.
Council figures, including mayor Ian Ross, chief executive Gail Gatt, and councillors, also took part in the ceremony.
Uncle Ron Marks led the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony along with the First Nation kids from Horsham College.
He reflected on the importance of such events, saying, “I believe it’s paramount for communities.”
“If councils around Australia didn’t show support, people would ask, 'How are we going to get together?'," Uncle Ron said.
“And today it really spun me out, as I was told to expect around 100 people, but I think there were even more, and I was pleased with that.”
Cr Ross described the turnout as ‘fantastic’ and praised the community’s spirit.
“The community was really great and supportive,” he said.
“It’s about reconciliation, stopping racism, and drawing us together as one.
“We encourage other people to come next year and join in.”
This year’s theme, ‘Bridging Now to Next’ resonated throughout speeches and reflections.
Council CEO Gail Gatt, attending her first public event since starting the role, said the response had been uplifting.
“I was really impressed with the turnout today and it’s fantastic that everyone was happy to walk alongside us in the spirit of reconciliation,” she said.
Ms Gatt also spoke about the council’s ongoing efforts.
“We’re developing an action plan in consultation with traditional owners,” she said.
“A lot of it will be about listening, learning, and being prepared to have open communication.”
“Reconciliation starts with learning about each other’s cultures.
“There’s lots of truth-telling to be done, and we want to be there to listen.”
Uncle Ron highlighted the importance of involving younger generations.
“The boys helping me with the smoking ceremony get time off from school to do cultural activities,” he said.
“They keep it in their heart. Why can’t that be for everyone?
“Let’s have all races and communities behind one another.”
Reflecting on the past, Uncle Ron Marks spoke about how reconciliation efforts have evolved over the past 30 to 40 years.
“Back in 1975, when the Whitlam government gave us self-management and self-determination right across the country, it changed everything,” he said.
He recalled that reconciliation was a full-on effort during that time, particularly through cultural festivals and public gatherings that drew large crowds.
“If people love what’s offered, they’ll show up,” he said.
“We’ve grown from those days, and now we need to keep building.
“Make it something families put in their diaries and look forward to together.”
He also praised the council’s efforts in organising the event.
“Councillor Dean O’Loughlin, who’s part of both council and Goolum Goolum, bridged the gap,” he said.
“The council said, ‘Let’s do it,’ and they delivered.
“The traditional owners wouldn’t have come if they didn’t believe in it.”
Looking ahead, Uncle Ron encouraged the community to dream bigger.
“Let’s double it next year, get ideas from people, throw them in a hat, and see what’s possible,” he said.
“Let’s make it something the whole family looks forward to.”
The event, set against the backdrop of the Wimmera River, concluded with a barbecue lunch hosted by the Lions Club.
