Reconciliation Week
Fun Day

The event was held to celebrate reconciliation in Australia between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-indigenous Australians.

Members of the public gathered to enjoy a free sausage sizzle, and admire the sounds of local Didgeridoo (Yidaki) player, Craig Write.

Open Minds Indigenous Engagement Officer, Russell Tighe, spoke to attendees about Mabo Day, a day to commemorate Eddie Koiki Mabo who campaigned for Indigenous land rights. 

He highlighted that many others before Eddie Mabo had also dedicated themselves to campaigning for Indigenous rights but were unsuccessful, and he recognised their contribution too.

Russell said: “It is important for everyone to be aware of the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, so that we can work towards achieving real reconciliation.”

Attendees were also provided with information about how Open Minds supports individuals who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and have mental illness or disabilities.

At present, 7.5% of Open Minds service users identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and 4.1% of employees.

As part of our commitment to the Reconciliation Action Plan, Open Minds is taking steps towards ensuring that the percentage of employees is reflective of the percentage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service users.

The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) provides organisations with a framework to support the national reconciliation movement.

The Open Minds commitment by joining the RAP in 2016 is ultimately to close the employment, economic, health, and wellbeing gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. 

We do this by ensuring that Indigenous peoples receive high quality mental health, disability, social and emotional wellbeing services delivered in a culturally appropriate manner.

To see the full album of photos from the day, visit our Facebook page.