Action on reconciliation

By Kath Gannaway
A RECONCILIATION Action Plan launched during Reconciliation Week at Healesville Sanctuary outlines 20 actions Zoos Victoria will take over the next two years to protect, celebrate and share Aboriginal culture.
The RAP was launched on 29 May with special guests including the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Jeanette Powell, Aboriginal musician Archie Roach and Zoos Victoria chairman Andrew Fairley and CEO Jenny Gray joining Sanctuary staff, volunteers and visitors on the day.
The actions identified under the organisation’s first formal RAP will focus on creating opportunities and building relationships and respect between Melbourne Zoos, Werribee Open Range Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Among the 20 actions are working with the Wurundjeri traditional owners to ensure co-operative management and access to the Coranderrk Bushland through a Memorandum of Understanding and managing sites of significance in partnership with the traditional owners.
Dates of cultural significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be acknowledged and celebrated, including a commitment of six staff members to attend events.
The plan also aims for a 10 per cent increase in school children attending the Sanctuary’s Aboriginal education programs by June 2013.
In terms of career opportunities, the RAP aims to have one Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprenticeship in place by December this year, and by June 2013, five traineeships in place.
Zoos Victoria CEO Jenny Gray said the RAP was an important step for the organisation.
“We are a proud custodian of traditional country that includes a number of significant sites,” Ms Gray said.
“In partnership with traditional owners we want to ensure that visitors, staff and our volunteers learn about Aboriginal culture.”
Ms Gray said Zoos Victoria had already achieved fantastic things such as the inclusion of Aboriginal storytelling into the popular Spirits of the Sky show at Healesville Sanctuary, employment and training opportunities and onsite interpretation.
The RAP was developed in partnership with Reconciliation Australia, traditional owners and other stakeholders.
Reconciliation Australia CEO Leah Armstrong said it was an excellent example of what they hope to see more of at a time that was a turning point for reconciliation.
“Recognising the value of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and knowledge is the first step in our journey of moving forward together as a united nation,” Ms Armstrong said.
The celebration of culture and sharing of knowledge was a highlight of the day with renowned musician Archie Roach performing at the official launch and continuing with a one-hour unplugged performance for visitors.
The Wurundjeri Jindi Worabak dancers were also part of a program of Indigenous-themed activities.