We walk together, we work together
Joint Media Release
Working together to strengthen reconciliation across the region, the recently formed Bass Coast Reconciliation Network aims to bring together organisations and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to achieve positive social change and lead reconciliation initiatives across the region.
Newly appointed Chair of the Reconciliation Network, Geoff Russell said “Together the group will work to improve opportunities for training and employment, join forces to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dates of significance and draw on our collective strength to advance reconciliation and recognition.”
“As a group of the largest employers in the region, it’s important we show leadership. Having a regional body focused on common goals will allow us to combine our resources and make it easier for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to participate.”
“The Bass Coast Reconciliation Network will meet four times a year and has its first official meeting planned for Thursday 21st March from 10am at Westernport Water’s office in Newhaven.”
“If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person living in the local community and would like to be involved in this first-of-its-kind project, we are keen to chat to you!” said Mr Russell.
Participating local organisations include Bass Coast Shire Council, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bass Coast Health and Westernport Water, along with Traditional Owner Organisations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community representatives and the Bass Coast and South Gippsland Reconciliation Group.
One of the network’s first initiatives was the commissioning of four reconciliation artworks through an open Expression of Interest process.
“We are delighted to announce the successful artists as: Patrice Mahoney, Adam Magennis (both pictured), Safina Stewart and her daughter Arieta,” said Mr Russell.
“Each artist provided an excellent response to the brief and the resulting artworks will be used to further promote recognition and reconciliation across Bass Coast and will be launched during National Reconciliation Week in May.”
To learn more about reconciliation in workplaces across Australia, please visit https://www.reconciliation.org.au/
ENDS
For more information call Geoff Russell on 1300 720 711 or email | communications@westernportwater.com.au
