National Reconciliation Week: Now More Than Ever

It was a week of reflection and solidarity across our Juniper sites as many of our staff and customers came together to acknowledge National Reconciliation Week.

This year’s theme, Now More Than Ever, calls on Australians to continue the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people beyond key awareness events like National Reconciliation Week.

At Juniper Central, staff came together for a morning tea event, which kicked off with two lively performances by Wadumbah Noongar Dance Group.

One dance, which mimicked a mob of young Aboriginal men hunting for fish, saw the performers interact with the audience, while the second dance was a reenactment of ‘spirit warriors’ rising from the fire.

Following the dance performances, staff were encouraged to contribute to Juniper’s Growing Tree artwork by placing their handprint on the branches.

The concept behind this interactive activity is that ‘many hands make light work’ as we walk towards the path of reconciliation alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Staff also enjoyed thick slices of damper provided by bushtukka catering group, All Good Grub, alongside a selection of spreads including quandong and finger lime jams from Australian Native Food Co.

Reflecting on his personal journey with reconciliation, Juniper CEO Russell Bricknell encouraged staff to gain a better understanding of what it means.

He also reiterated the importance of listening to First Nations voices and stories so that we can all walk towards a more just, equitable future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.