This evening I reflected upon the Acknowledgement of Country written by year Six Students at Redhead Public School and delivered at the opening of the Redhead Miner's Memorial. This is what I said:



Today marks the fifth anniversary of my inaugural speech in this place. Five years ago today in that speech I reflected upon my growing understanding of Acknowledgement of Country.

Last week at the opening of the Miners Memorial at Redhead Mens Shed, I heard a student, Damon, from Redhead Public School deliver an Acknowledgement of Country written for that occasion by Year Six students.

After acknowledging the Awabakal Land and paying respect to Elders, Damon read:

I extend respect to emerging Elders as it is them who will carry the traditions and beliefs towards the next century.

As we live, work, learn and play beside ancient camping grounds and near Kintirrabin, we must reflect on the Awabakal legend that tells of a time when, after a sound like a volcanic eruption in Redhead, a great darkness fell on the land.

Messengers were sent in all directions, bringing all people together to work out how light could be brought back to the world.

As we move forward towards reconciliation, we should learn from these wise people and all work together in the spirit of harmony, tolerance and acceptance.

As I think about those students in my electorate, I think the work of reconciliation will be in good hands.