Concert showcases reconciliation

Reconciliation Week came to a triumphant close with a free concert at South Hedland Square on Saturday, June 2.

The concert celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history and recognised traditional owners.

Town of Port Hedland Mayor Camilo Blanco said Reconciliation Week was an important part of acknowledging the Town’s indigenous heritage.

“Reconciliation Week commemorates two significant milestones in Australia’s journey towards reconciliation — the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision,” he said. The event was sponsored by Monadelphous and started with a range of family activities, and included a free barbecue throughout the night.

The Merindas took to the stage with some family-friendly entertainment, performing some classic singalong tunes, inviting young and old alike up onto the stage for a dance, and finishing their set by singing a song in their traditional Noongar language.

Phil Walleystack and his band opened with a didgeridoo and went on to tell stories of the Dreamtime with the help of a traditional dancer.

Reconciliation Week ran from May 27-June 3.