Now More Than Ever

MercyCare proudly acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Western Australia, recognising their enduring connection to land, waters, and sky. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and Elders past and present.

This year’s National Reconciliation Week (NRW) theme, “Now More Than Ever,” is a powerful reminder that the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an ongoing journey that must continue with renewed vigour and commitment.

Welcome Baby to Country Event

On Friday, 24 May ,MercyCare participated in the third Welcome Baby to Country event at the Champion Centre.

This special event honours mothers and families by welcoming new babies into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities—a cultural practice that includes the entire community, from elders to extended families.

These ceremonies, which have been held for thousands of years, acknowledge an infant’s connection to the lands on which they are born. MercyCare is proud to support these events, celebrating children, country, and the cultural ties that bind communities.

Reconciliation Week Breakfast

Another highlight of NRW 2024 was the Reconciliation Week Breakfast, featuring food supplied by All Good Grub. The breakfast included various activities such as mindful colouring, rock painting, and other engaging tasks that brought people together in a spirit of reconciliation and community.

Sorry Day Yarn with Tony Hansen

Tony Hansen, the youngest member of the Stolen Generation, was the guest speaker at the Sorry Day Yarn. His moving address provided deep insights into the experiences of the Stolen Generation. It underscored the importance of acknowledging and understanding this crucial part of Australia’s history.

Celebrations in the Kimberley

Our Kimberley Team celebrated NRW with vibrant community events, including small canvas painting, a throw net competition, bean bag throwing, balance bucket challenges, kids’ colouring, face painting, and jewellery making.

The festivities were accompanied by a YouTube documentary and music, creating a lively and educational atmosphere. Light food and cake added to the joyous occasion, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the community.

Reconciliation Walk

Despite the weather, the MercyCare team participated in the Reconciliation Walk, joining staff from organisations across Perth to honour the heritage and people of Australia. Undeterred by the elements, the team stood in solidarity, demonstrating their commitment to reconciliation and the ongoing journey towards justice and equality.

Maddington Celebrates First Reconciliation Week in New Building

At Maddington, we were honoured to have a resident proudly raise the Aboriginal flag, with its red symbolising the earth, black representing the Aboriginal people, and the yellow circle being the sun.

The event featured a didgeridoo cultural performance and storytelling, as well as welcoming a new resident, emphasising the importance of cultural connection and community spirit.

Reconciliation Week Banner

We were proud to have a banner during the Reconciliation Week Street Banner Program. The banner is an initiative that contributes positively to reconciliation, raises awareness of NRW throughout Western Australia, and allows organisations to acknowledge the significant place of Aboriginal people and culture within our community.

Looking Forward

Reflecting on NRW 2024, MercyCare reaffirms its commitment to supporting and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Now more than ever, we stand united to advance justice, recognition, and reconciliation for all.

For more information on our ongoing initiatives and how you can get involved, visit our website and follow us on social media.