“Our Culture is built upon the Lore, and that meant we listened to our Elders… They were the building blocks of our Culture. It’s so important today to remember where we came from and that… we have to respect our Elders. And when Elders speak, we should listen.” – Aunty Thelma Chilly, Victorian Aboriginal Elders Summit guest speaker.
Elders from across Victoria gathered on Wurundjeri Country in Naarm for the second Victorian Aboriginal Elders Summit in late October.
The Summit’s theme ‘Dreaming of our past to shape our future’ celebrated the long and enduring wisdom of Elders past and present, and how their strength and legacy will define the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The first day of the Summit sparked powerful yarns about the role of Elders in Treaty, the impact of aged care reforms on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and the inspiring work of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) who support Elders every day.
Day two was opened by a stunning performance from Uncle Herb Patten and his trusty gum leaf, followed by a panel celebrating the vital contributions of Aboriginal Health Liaison Officers in keeping Mob safe in hospitals for more than 30 years. The floor then opened for Elders to share knowledge, Culture and stories.
Throughout the Summit, Elders also spent time with Corringle Creators, who hosted a space for weaving, yarning, Cultural expression and healing that ran across both days.
The highlight of the Gala dinner was the presence of the deadly guests of honour – The Sapphires and sisters. Aunty Bev Briggs, Aunty Laurel Robinson, Aunty Zeta Thomson along side very special guest, Aunty Rochelle Pattern, who shared stories, photos and memories about growing up and singing on Country, before performing a selection of their beloved songs that had everyone singing along. The deadly Carly May also performed two amazing songs that had Elders up and dancing.
It was a night filled with joy, connection, and deep pride. A reminder of the enduring power of music, storytelling and cultural strength.
“We have to reflect on our past, who we are, where we come from… We reflect on the legacy of Elders… it grounds us and gives us a sense of direction.”- Uncle Alan Brown
As the Summit came to a close, the spirit of Culture, connection and respect carried through every session, performance, and yarn. Together, Elders at the summit made the following calls to action:
- The summit rejected the Commonwealth Government’s new Support at Home program and the inclusion of Stolen Generations redress payments in means testing. Aboriginal Elders called for exemptions from Aged Care co-contributions.
- That Elders’ Voices be established throughout Victoria and led by local Elders, to speak and advocate on matters of importance to each Aboriginal Community.
- That Elders are supported and resourced to pass on their knowledge to the young generations.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all the deadly speakers, performers, Elders and attendees who helped make this gathering so powerful.
We also thank the Summit’s gold sponsors Commonwealth Bank and Law Squared, and our partner exhibitors:
