It was great to attend this community event run by the University of Newcastle, in collaboration with Awabakal Ltd and with support from the City of Newcastle.

Ngarrama, a free public event on January 25, the eve of Australia Day, to engage the community in meaningful reconciliation through truth telling and historical acceptance. Inspired by Sydney's Vigil at Barangaroo, the program celebrated the rich culture of all First Nations people, with a focus on the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, the traditional owners of the land upon which Newcastle now stands.

The event included a smoking ceremony, welcome to country, traditional dance, music, storytelling, and knowledge sharing. The aim of the event was to provide a clear space for traditional ceremony, acknowledgement, and cultural celebration, and it was a valuable opportunity for the community to learn more about Aboriginal culture.