This month, members from our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network (ATSN) and our First Nations Cultural Governance Committee (FNCGC) gathered on Wurundjeri Country in Naarm (Melbourne) for our Annual ATSN Staff Network event, this year hosted at Melbourne Zoo. These important gatherings create space for mob to connect, share knowledge, celebrate wins, raise concerns, and support each other’s wellbeing and professional growth. They also give us the chance to learn through First Nations–led workshops and cultural experiences, strengthening our communities and the work we do. A huge thank you to our facilitators and cultural leaders: • Kristy Dickinson (Haus of Dizzy) – creative workshop: shirt & tote bag printing • Nornie Bero (Mabu Mabu) – cultural ingredient workshop & interactive Yarning Circle Q&A • Wurundjeri Elder, Annette Xiberras – Welcome to Country (Day 1) • Wurundjeri Man, Colin Hunter Jnr Jnr – Welcome to Country & didge performance (Day 2) We are grateful for the connections, stories, and shared culture that continue to shape and grow our spaces.
Looks like a powerful couple of days, big thanks to the facilitators and Elders for creating such a welcoming and rich experience.
Well done everyone 👏
As an Aboriginal Ngarrindjeri man, and like many, i have lost many through suicide. I lost my brother, niece, best mate and countless friends. Having worked in the area of suicide prevention for decades, and having sat on the Innugural Premier s Suicide Prevention Council of South Australia for 4.5 years, I just wish to acknowledge the hard work you all do nationwide. Thank you all.