A focus on learning, reflection and action this Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week 2026 will be held from 27 May to 3 June 2026, and Moonee Valley City Council is set to support this time of learning, reflection and action.
The week marks two key anniversaries in Australia’s reconciliation journey: 27 May (the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum) and 3 June (the anniversary of the Mabo decision / recognition of Native Title).
This year’s theme of ‘All In’ inspired council activities that reinforce a commitment to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through shared responsibility and understanding.
Council will host a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony on Wednesday 27 May, then bush tucker cooking and ochre painting workshops facilitated by Cultural Gardens – a business owned and operated by horticulturist Agus Gorini, and Sarah Schwager, a descendant of First Nations Australians.
An ochre workshop starts with learning about ochre, why it is sacred and how it is collected then moves onto how to paint with ochre using different painting tools like sticks, feathers, fingers/hands and paintbrushes.
Participants will learn about the bush tucker found commonly in Melbourne in the second workshop and get to smell, touch, taste native herbs and plants such as Warrigal greens and pigface.
Then, they will discover how to incorporate bush tucker into everyday cooking at home by swapping thyme, oregano, mint, rosemary with native herbs. Small jars will be provided so what they make can be taken home, along with recipe printouts.
The Mayor of Moonee Valley, Dr Rose Iser, encouraged the community to get involved in activities as part of our community’s genuine support for Reconciliation.
“We welcome all residents to be meaningfully involved in Reconciliation in this year’s program focused on nature,” Dr Iser said.
“These activities are inspired by a deep respect for the land and offer a unique perspective on gardens and culture through hands-on learning.
“It is a celebration of the Indigenous connection to the environment and how we can embrace this idea in simple and meaningful ways.”
Event details
- Location: Djerring Flemington Hub
- Date: Wednesday 27 May 2026
- Time: 10.00am – 12:30pm
Program:
- Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony performed by a Wurundjeri Woi‑wurrung Elder
- Bush tucker cooking and ochre painting workshops facilitated by Cultural Gardens Aboriginal business.
Learn more about Reconciliation Week: National Reconciliation Week – Reconciliation Australia