Reconciliation Action Plan Endorsed
Westernport Water is proud to announce that its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) has been endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.
The RAP sets out Westernport Water’s commitment to strengthen relationships, build respect and create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Westernport Water’s Managing Director Peter Quigley said “We are in a unique position as a government water corporation and a natural resource manager to actively work with our communities to acknowledge, respect and protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and wellbeing.”
“We have been on our reconciliation journey for just under 18 months, and I applaud our RAP Working Group who has been the driving force behind the change at Westernport Water.”
“It has been a lengthy process, but necessary to develop relationships and enable meaningful engagement with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community, Traditional Owner Organisations and the Registered Aboriginal Party the Bunurong Land Council.”
“We must recognise that reconciliation is an ongoing process. However, our RAP formalises our commitment to reconciliation and now our efforts turn to delivering specific actions and initiatives.”
“I’m proud to share our Reflect RAP with our community and thank everyone for their valuable contributions,” said Mr Quigley.
Bunurong Land Council Cultural Heritage Advisor and Traditional Owner Adam Magennis said “Reconciliation and recognition of the First Australians is a significant social and cultural outcome for organisations that work and operate on this country.”
“The Bunurong Land Council is proud of our relationship with Westernport Water to achieve dual outcomes to care for our ancestors’ lands and waterways, and to support the local community who call the Bass Coast home,” said Mr Magennis.
RAP Working Group member and local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Community member, Patrice Mahoney said “Members of the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community have played an important role in the development of Westernport Water’s Reflect RAP. It’s great to see their commitment and all the work that’s gone into the development of the plan recognised by Reconciliation Australia. We look forward to working with Westernport Water to deliver on their commitments.”
To view Westernport Water’s Reflect RAP please visit www.westernportwater.com.au or alternatively visit Reconciliation Australia’s website www.reconciliation.org.au/reconciliation-action-plans/who-has-a-rap/
Download a copy Media Release – Reconciliation Action Plan Endorsed
ENDS
Media Contact | Geoff Russell 1300 720 711 or email | communications@westernportwater.com.au
