Councillors, teachers and health sector representatives from Warrnambool, Moyne, Corangamite and Colac Otway learnt   about local indigenous history and culture as part of  an effort to establish a south-west reconciliation action group. It is hoped their educational walk and thinktank will lead to better employment and educational opportunities.

Framlingham cultural leader Geoff ‘Possum’ Clark-Ugle shared his knowledge and gave hands-on experience with traditional customs.

His guided tour was organised in partnership with Reconciliation Victoria and the South West Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN).

“It was about taking time to reflect on what reconciliation means on a personal level and how it can be advanced in the wider community,” South West LLEN partnership broker Yvonne Kane said.

“We provided opportunity for participants to consider how to take the next step.

“Possum helped council representatives explore ways of making their communities and workplaces more reflective of Aboriginal culture and community.

“This is particularly important for our local government representatives in their unique role of promoting and achieving reconciliation.

“Today’s was an important start to identifying ways municipal leaders could strengthen their relationships and work more closely with local Aboriginal communities.”

Ms Kane said improved education and employment links were important in achieving the goals.

She has spent considerable time helping teachers improve understanding of  indigenous culture.

Yesterday’s outing looked at how teachers could include history and culture of the local Gunditjmara, Peek Whurrong, Kirrae Whurrong, Gulidjan and Gabadunud tribal groups.