Acknowledgment to the Bundjalung People
We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and pay our respects to the traditional custodians of the land on which we live, work, and gather, the Bundjalung People. We recognize and honor their deep connection to country, their rich cultural heritage, and their ongoing custodianship over the land.
We acknowledge that the Bundjalung People have been the traditional owners and caretakers of this land for thousands of years, sustaining their communities through a deep understanding of the land, its resources, and its spiritual significance. We acknowledge their enduring wisdom, resilience, and the invaluable contributions they have made and continue to make to the broader community.
We express our gratitude to the Bundjalung Elders, both past and present, who have maintained and passed on their knowledge, stories, and traditions to future generations. Their guidance and leadership have been instrumental in preserving the cultural heritage of the Bundjalung People and fostering understanding and respect among all people who call this land home.
We recognize that the process of reconciliation is an ongoing journey, and we commit to working collaboratively with the Bundjalung People to build meaningful and lasting relationships based on trust, respect, and shared understanding. We acknowledge the importance of supporting initiatives that empower the Bundjalung community, promote cultural revitalization, and address the ongoing challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
As we acknowledge the past injustices and ongoing systemic issues faced by the Bundjalung People and other Indigenous communities, we commit to amplifying their voices, promoting social justice, and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all. We acknowledge the need to listen, learn, and act in partnership with the Bundjalung People, recognizing their right to self-determination and land rights.
In conclusion, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Bundjalung People for their custodianship, their wisdom, and their cultural richness. We commit to standing alongside them in their aspirations for a future where their cultural heritage is respected, celebrated, and protected. We acknowledge the profound importance of the Bundjalung People in shaping the land and communities we are a part of, and we are grateful for the opportunity to live, learn, and grow together.