AROUND 250 people gathered at Willum Warrain Aboriginal Gathering Place in Hastings on Saturday 30 May for the annual Reconciliation Family and Allies Day, a community event celebrating culture, connection and support for reconciliation.
This year’s theme, All in for Reconciliation, ran throughout the day, reflecting the importance of working together and the strong support Willum Warrain receives across the peninsula.
The event began with a Welcome to Country by Jimmy Brown from the Bunurong Land Council, followed by a cultural dance performance by Jarlo and Ganga Giri.
Speakers included Hastings MP Paul Mercurio, Mornington Peninsula Shire acting mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro, Aunty Helen Bnads and Willum Warrain president Aaron Simmler.
Councillors David Gill, Michael Stephens, Kate Roper and Max Patton also attended.
Volunteers from Southern Women’s Action Network, Mornington Peninsula Human Rights Group and Southern Peninsula Allies supported the event, with the Mornington Peninsula Shire providing a community events grant.
For Willum Warrain, the day was both a celebration and a clear statement that the Gathering Place remains an important destination for reconciliation on the peninsula.
First published in the Mornington News – 9 June 2026
