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Bamara recently facilitated a highly successful series of Cultural Awareness Experiences, hosted on the lands of the Ngemba (Ngiyaampa) people at the Back O’ Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre for the Bourke community.
Over two immersive days, community members engaged in enlightening activities and discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of First Nations traditions and perspectives.
These experiences received funding and support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Program (ISEP), delivered through the Warakirri Hub and operated by Bamara.
The strong turnout from various local organisations, including Bourke and District Children’s Services, and Bourke Shire Council, highlighted the community’s commitment to enhancing cultural awareness and valuing the unique cultures and histories of First Nations peoples that is deeply connected to Country.
The sessions kicked off with traditional ceremonies presented by respected Traditional Owners, Uncle Phil Sullivan and Auntie Margo Grimes.
Uncle Phil delivered a powerful Smoking Ceremony, sharing his extensive passion for the culture and traditions of his people, as well as his deep knowledge of Country, the interconnectedness of the land, and its significance to the landscape of Bourke.
Aunty Margo delivered a heartfelt Welcome to Country, drawing upon her extensive experience as an educator. She acknowledged ancestors and Elders, past and present, for laying a strong foundation for our younger generation, while also recognising the importance of nurturing a continued connection to the land.
Sessions were delivered by our Bamara Training team, led by Jamie-Lee Lalic, a proud Bundjalung woman. Her extensive knowledge and passion for cultural education and wellbeing created an engaging and dynamic atmosphere that encouraged collaboration among participants.
Throughout the sessions, participants were supported and encouraged by our First Nations team and local Elders, who shared their rich narratives, lived experiences, and teachings of First Nations peoples and cultures.
Bamara First Nations Programs Operations Manager, Jamie Williams, a proud Wonnarua man, highlighted the importance and strength of these workshops which aimed to create an environment where participants could ask questions, share experiences, and build connections.
“To see over 60 people from the Bourke community attend, participate and embrace such a significant event was heartwarming and a positive step in understanding the challenges and past history of First Nations peoples, future collaboration in the community will allow a more united approach to helping the next generation,” Jamie said.
“I also want to pay tribute to the Bourke Elders to allow Bamara and the staff to be able to deliver this in such a respectful forum.”
Participants also gained a deeper understanding of cultural safety and its importance in both for inclusive and respectful workplaces and their broader community.
The sessions emphasised the importance of respecting First Nations perspectives, and covered a broad range of subjects, empowering participants to incorporate these insights into their own lives through various workshops and activities, allowing participants to develop personalised Action Plans further.
The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a shared desire to learn and grow together.
By bringing people from different backgrounds together under the common goal of promoting cultural understanding and sensitivity, these workshops have laid the groundwork for ongoing dialogue and collaboration across the Bourke community.
About the Warakirri Hub
The Warakirri Hub, operated by Bamara, is made possible through the Indigenous Skills and Employment Program (ISEP), funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
Through ISEP, the Australian Government is working in partnership with communities to connect First Nations people to jobs, career advancement opportunities, new training, and job-ready activities.
