A significant milestone today at Western Sydney International Airport who officially launched their Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) at the Experience Centre. The event commenced with a smoking ceremony by Uncle Harry followed by a Welcome to Country by Dharug Custodian Rhiannon Watson.
Master of Ceremony Charles Prouse led the event by introducing all guest speakers including Simon Kickey (Western Sydney International Airport CEO), Karen Mundine (Reconciliation Australia CEO) and Guest Panellist: Dave Roberts (AH&MRC RTO), Tammy Anderson (Briar Road Public School), Edwina Crawford (NSW Department of Communities and Justice) and Michael O’Loughlin (Enable Consulting Services).
Guest had the pleasure to view performances by Garabara Dance Group who performed several traditional dances, a powerhouse performance of the National Anthem in both English and language by local performer Hamani Tanginoa, who a truly amazing performance.
Another core focus of the event was the official unveiling of the Western Sydney International Airport Reconciliation Artwork “Our Journey, Our Future” created by proud Kamilaroi woman Rhonda Sampson, tells the story of Sydney’s new airport and their journey of reconciliation. The event wrapped up with Western Sydney International Airport Aboriginal Engagement Manager Peter Jensen also performed Yidiki Songline and explained the story behind the Yidiki. Congratulations to Western Sydney International Airport and the community, who have walked on this journey together and the successful event today to launch their first Reconciliation Action Plan.
As an essential services provider operating in high-growth regions of New South Wales, Endeavour’s network overlaps the Dharug, Wiradjuri, Dharawal, Gundungurra and Yuin nations. Endeavour Energy acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which they work, and pay respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. We believe we can deliver impactful and sustainable actions towards reconciliation now and into the future.
Today Endeavour Energy proudly launched their first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We marked this important milestone in our reconciliation journey with a welcome from Dharug Elder, Uncle Lex Dadd, and smoking ceremony and cultural performance by Wuruniri Music and Dance.
Endeavour’s RAP Lead Mark Barton and CEO Guy Chalkley spoke about the importance of reconciliation and how our RAP will propel and guide us into the future. It reflects Endeavour’s goal of building respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and traditions, and will help strengthen relationships and create meaningful opportunities for First Nations peoples. Importantly, it includes practical actions to drive our contribution to reconciliation.
As an essential services provider operating in high-growth regions of New South Wales, Endeavour’s network overlaps the Dharug, Wiradjuri, Dharawal, Gundungurra and Yuin nations. Endeavour Energy acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which they work, and pay respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. We believe we can deliver impactful and sustainable actions towards reconciliation now and into the future.
Outdoor concerts, barbecues and fireworks are some of the many events that are happening around the state on Australia Day.
Sydneysiders are encouraged to come together to respect, reflect and unite with renewed passion and optimism on Australia Day.
The 2022 program will be rich in culture and heritage, with the NSW Government and The Australia Day Council of NSW committed to hosting a Covid-safe day for everyone.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said this Australia Day is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, strength, and compassion of all Australians.
“Australia Day is a time for inclusion, understanding and reconciliation,” he said. “We respect the contributions of all Australians and we celebrate our combined achievements by coming together and reconnecting with family, friends, and the community.”
WugulOra smoking ceremony. Picture: Courtesy of Australia Day Council of NSW.
As the sun rises and early morning swimmers make a splash, the Sydney Opera House sails will be illuminated with First Nations artwork by Pitjantjatjara artist David Miller.
Recognise the world’s oldest living culture, WugulOra, at Barangaroo Reserve and witness this timeless morning ceremony of cleansing, reflecting and connecting with First Nations people.
The annual GIO Oz Day 10K race will see some of the world’s finest wheelchair athletes race around the The Rocks with incredible strength and endurance.
Around the corner, settle in for lunch with mouth-watering flavours from outdoor food trucks while kicking back at the Overseas Passenger Terminal.
The much-loved Ferrython will see ferries dressed and decorated in honour of their namesakes – May Gibbs, Catherine Hamlin, Victor Chang and Pemulwuy – as they make waves before the dash to the finish line under the Harbour Bridge.
Artist Rhonda Sampson with the Pemulwuy ferry. Picture: Courtesy of Australia Day Council of NSW.
As the Ferrython winds down, it will then be time for the Australian Defence Force to play its part with a tri-service salute from the Army, Navy and Airforce.
This includes an address from the Governor of NSW, a 21-gun salute and an aerial flyover and manoeuvring display by a RAAF Fast Jet.
In the afternoon, the Tall Ships Race will see majestic boats compete from Bradleys Head to the Harbour Bridge, followed by the world’s oldest annually conducted sailing event, the 186th Australia Day Regatta.
The Opera House will once again host some of Australia’s most talented artists on the forecourt combined with a spectacular land and water show spanning Circular Quay and the Harbour.
Australia Day Live. Picture: Courtesy of Australia Day Council of NSW.
An all-star line-up includes Delta Goodrem, Casey Donovan, Isaiah Firebrace, country singers Amber Lawrence and Kirsty Lee Akers and more.
“It’s wonderful to have the Australia Day program return across the state, as we look forward to a positive and optimistic future,” Australia Day Council of NSW Chair Andrew Parker said.
“This year we want to bring people together to celebrate the Australian spirit and support those who are facing hardship.”
Sydneysiders are encouraged to get in early, physically distance and plan ahead.
*Get set for a fireworks bonanza, dazzling acrobatics of jetskiers and a line-up of the nation’s best talent at the 2022 Australia Day Live concert.
Hosted at the Sydney Opera House by John Foreman, Jeremy Fernandez, Casey Donovan and Delta Goodrem, the two-hour show features up to 150 performers and 17 different acts showcasing diversity, storytelling and First Nations culture.
“We are bringing together some of our best and most successful artists, each with their own unique story and experience to share with the nation,” Australia Day Council of NSW creative director John Foreman OAM said.
Casey Donovan
“I’m excited that William Barton, Australia’s leading didgeridoo player and a huge name in the classical music world, will be performing as part of the line-up again.”
Incredible artists including Delta Goodrem, William Barton, Shane Howard, Casey Donovan, Isaiah Firebrace, INXS founding member Andrew Farriss, country singers Amber Lawrence, Hayley Jensen, Kirsty Lee Akers and Aleyce Simmonds, tenor Mark Vincent and opera artist Josh Piterman will unite in this uplifting show celebrating the Australian spirit.
“I’ll be performing and presenting which is always such a treat,” said Casey Donovan, who will sing ‘In The Summertime’. “When times are tough, we come together and celebrate – and we celebrate with the only thing we know how to do … through music and the arts.
“We uplift people when they’re feeling down, we embrace the joy when people are happy and we get to do that doing the one thing that we love. We sing and create our hearts out so that our country can come together and celebrate some happiness.”
Isaiah Firebrace
Isaiah Firebrace and Djakapurra Munyarryun will perform ‘Djapana – Sunset Dreaming’ supported by William Barton and the Koomurri dancers with a dazzling jet-ski eel circling Circular Quay.
“We have had such a tough few years it’s important to celebrate everything we can and support the community,” Isaiah Firebrace said.
“I’m representing my people, my family and the incredible amount of history that is behind me. I stand up and perform with that behind me to showcase my culture and to show Australia that we are still here and we can do great things no matter what has happened in the past.”
For Shane Howard, this year marks 40 years since his Aussie rock band Goanna released its smash hit, Solid Rock, in 1982, with its powerful lyrics just as meaningful and significant today.
It will be brought to life in a multi-artist collaboration, including soul singer Emma Donovan, for today’s generation to connect with our past.
William Barton
“Solid Rock was inspired by Shane Howard visiting our Sacred Rock, Uluru, and resonates as a modern-day canvas, painting a picture of what happened when European settlers first came to the country,” William Barton said.
“I’ve known Shane since I was 11 when he came to my country (Kalkadungu) at Mt Isa. He asked me to get up and play Solid Rock as a young kid.”
For those enjoying the waterfront festivities, there will be screens around the foreshore.
Many restaurants and venues are taking bookings so make a night of it.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, physically distance and plan ahead, noting there will be entry checkpoints around the Circular Quay foreshore precinct.
Tune in at 7.30pm on ABC TV and ABC iview.
7.30pm – Solid Rock opening segment with Shane Howard and Welcome to Country – featuring William Barton, Emma Donovan and the KARI singers
7.45pm – ‘Run to Paradise’ by Delta Goodrem
7.52pm – Casey Donovan ‘In The Summertime’ accompanied by jet skis and fly-boarders, and from the sky parachutes descending into the quay
8.10pm – Tug & Yacht Ballet featuring maritime vessels including jet skis and fly-boarders
8.30pm – ‘Djapana – Sunset Dreaming’ by William Barton and Isaiah Firebrace and Djakapurra Munyarryun supported by the Koomurri dancers
8.36pm – ‘The Power’ by Delta Goodrem
8.44pm – ‘Nessun Dorma’ tribute to Opera sung by Mark Vincent and Josh Piterman accompanied by stunning lit vessels and aerial kite ballet
8.49pm – ‘Take me Back’ by Jon Stevens
9.02pm – INXS medley by Jon Stevens and Andrew Farriss
9.14pm – Live musical medley including Advance Australia Fair sung in English and Eora, with jet skis, flyboards and fireworks display
9.30pm – Show ends
COUNCIL EVENTS
Whether you’re in the city, on the coast or in a regional area, there are lots of events to enjoy. See your local council website for updates. Here’s what’s on offer.
URALLA SHIRE COUNCIL
11am-4pm
Procession starts at 11am from the corner of Bridge and Park streets and goes to Alma Park, followed by a Citizenship Ceremony, awards and Ambassador address.
BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL
9.30am-5.30pm
Start your day with the Citizenship & Award Ceremony at 9.30am at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre. Enjoy free entry to the Manning Aquatic Centre between 11am and 5.30pm.
LIVERPOOL CITY COUNCIL – BIGGE PARK
January 26 & 27, 5pm-10pm
Running over two days, the event will feature Liverpool’s favourite restaurants and food stalls, outdoor cinema, plenty of free family fun (below) and a pop-up bar selling exclusive cocktail and mocktail creations.
DUBBO REGIONAL COUNCIL – DUBBO
7.30am-1pm
Community breakfast and entertainment including the official ceremony where the mayor will present the cities Australia Day Awards and preside the Citizenship Ceremony.
DUBBO REGIONAL COUNCIL – WELLINGTON
7.30am-1pm
Community breakfast and entertainment including the official ceremony where the deputy mayor will present the cities Australia Day Awards and preside the Citizenship Ceremony.
MEET YOUR AMBASSADORS
Here are some of the Ambassadors who are participating in local events on January 26.
Narelle Campbell
Narelle Campbell
Antarctic station leader, 2015 NSW Australian of the Year Finalist
Armidale Regional Council
What will you be doing this Australia Day?
I’ve been invited to participate in celebrations in Guyra and Armidale. It’s been many years since my last visit to both communities, so I’ve decided to make the most of my time away and do a little road trip. I’ll participate in a full day of celebrations in Armidale starting with a picnic in the park, followed by a citizenship ceremony.
What does Reflect, Respect, Celebrate mean to you on Australia Day?
When I reflect on what Australia Day means, I think of our history, our beautiful country and all our communities (big and small) across our nation. I also think of our defence force teams and those supporting humanitarian and environmental projects.
Tiffany Thomas Kane OAM
Tiffany Thomas Kane OAM
Paralympic Medallist – Swimming
Bathurst Regional Council
What will you be doing this Australia Day?
I will be heading to regional Bathurst to be the ambassador and to welcome the new citizens into our country. I take it to tell my story but tell people about what Australia means to us and why this day is so special.
What does Reflect, Respect, Celebrate mean to you on Australia Day?
To reflect is to take the time to look over our country and see what it means to be an Australian. It’s important to acknowledge and respect our history and celebrate our great country and what we have.
Keith Potger and dog Ming. Picture: Elizabeth Hawkes.
Keith Potger AO
Founding member of The Seekers
Uralla Shire Council
What will you be doing this Australia Day?
I’ll be in the wonderful town of Uralla as an ambassador. Over the past several years I’ve been fortunate enough to be asked to attend these events based around Australia Day. Each venue has been memorable and I’ve made some great friendships so I’m looking forward to this one very much.
What does Reflect, Respect, Celebrate mean to you on Australia Day?
Each Australia Day brings us all closer to the reality that there was a significant culture here for many millennia before British colonisation. It’s incumbent on everyone to reflect on this with a desire to acknowledge the wrongs of the past and to recognise the unique value that indigenous culture brings to the nation.
In 2022, each of the four Sydney Harbour Ferrython vessels that are named after inspirational Australians will be dressed in designs that capture the ferry’s namesake and tell their incredible stories. Ferrython vessels will include: May Gibbs, Catherine Hamlin, Victor Chang and Pemulwuy. The storyline for the Pemulwuy ferry is a tribute to Australia’s First Aboriginal resistance leader and Bidjigal man Pemulwuy, whose story is embedded into the nation’s history and legacy still stands strong.
It was a pleasure to attend the unveiling of the “Caring for Country, Community & Culture” artwork for Fire and Rescue NSW at Campbelltown Fire Station.
I was commissioned by Fire and Rescue NSW to develop the artwork “Caring for Country, Community & Culture” which depicts the vital role that Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) play in protecting our communities throughout NSW.
The artwork reflects how Fire and Rescue NSW are caring for country and our natural environment through all seasons, empowering our communities through education, training and employment opportunities, and respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and connecting to the land.
Endeavour Energy’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) will launch in the new year, but we could not wait to celebrate the magnificent artwork that award-winning Aboriginal artist and community leader, Rhonda Sampson has created to illustrate our Reconciliation journey.
It was with real joy and humility that we welcomed Rhonda to unveil “Powering a Brighter Future Together” with Aboriginal staff, senior leaders and members of the RAP team. Rhonda is a proud Kamilaroi woman and long-term resident of Campbelltown on Dharawal Country.
The artwork illustrates how our people and our network interact with the five Aboriginal nations on which we work, the Dharug, Wiradjuri, Dharawal, Gundungurra and Yuin nations, as we make a journey of respect, building relationships, and creating opportunities. We can’t wait to welcome Rhonda back to Endeavour Energy for the RAP launch early in the new year.
The Western Sydney Women Awards are the only awards program representing women at all stages in their life, business & career across the Inner West, Greater West, North West & South West of Sydney.
It is also the only awards program that is free to enter & free to attend to ensure it is accessible to all women. The event will be attended by key stakeholders across community, Government and business including members of the Western Sydney Women community.
Rhonda Sampson has been announced as the Winner of the 2021 Western Sydney Women Awards for the Western Sydney Woman Indigenous Changemaker Award.
The Western Sydney Woman Indigenous Changemaker Award is for the Indigenous woman who has made a positive change in her community with a special focus on providing ways for women to become financially independent and confident.
The Western Sydney Women Awards are the only awards program representing women at all stages in their life, business & career across the Inner West, Greater West, North West & South West of Sydney.
It is also the only awards program that is free to enter & free to attend to ensure it is accessible to all women. The event will be attended by key stakeholders across community, Government and business including members of the Western Sydney Women community.
Rhonda Sampson has been announced as a Finalist in the 2021 Western Sydney Women Awards for the Western Sydney Woman Indigenous Changemaker Award.
The Western Sydney Woman Indigenous Changemaker Award is for the Indigenous woman who has made a positive change in her community with a special focus on providing ways for women to become financially independent and confident.
2021 Finalists
Charleene Mundine
Rhonda Sampson
Robyn Taylor
This Award is Sponsored by
Award Event Dates
Virtual Awards Night & Q&A Live-streamed on Western Sydney Women’s Facebook page 16th November 2021 (6pm – 7pm)
A Campbelltown woman has credited TAFE NSW with helping her turn her passion for creating contemporary Aboriginal artwork into a successful career.
Rhonda Sampson studied a Certificate III in design fundamentals and diploma of graphic design at TAFE NSW Campbelltown, and has since launched her own business, RS Creative Solutions.
The proud Kamilaroi woman has created murals and artworks for a suite of clients including Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Lendlease and Campbelltown City Council.
Ms Sampson, pictured, has won a number of honours, including a TAFE NSW Excellence award, TAFE NSW Gili award, NSW Training award and a Fisher’s Ghost art award.
She was also a finalist in the St George Dragons’ 2021 Indigenous jersey design competition.
“I enrolled in the diploma of graphic design as I wanted to develop my skills further and build my business,’’ says Ms Sampson.
“My teachers were amazing and really brought out the best in me. Without their support from start to finish, I don’t think I would have completed the course.
“The inspiration behind my work has always been my culture. I hope I can be a good role model for younger people looking to start their own business or join the design industry and show it’s never too late to pursue your passion.
“I would strongly encourage others to take the plunge and study something they’re passionate about.
“I’ve really enjoyed using the hands-on skills I’ve gained at TAFE NSW to create contemporary Aboriginal digital artworks for high profile clients.’’
TAFE NSW head teacher of design Lydia Kullik said the diploma of graphic design opens up rewarding career pathways in creative fields.
“Rhonda is a prime example of the opportunities TAFE NSW provides those looking to strengthen their creative and technical design skills and gain a nationally recognised qualification,” Ms Kullik said.
“Students will learn valuable skills such as digital illustration techniques, hand drawing, typography and layout, 3D design and construction, and how to work through the design process from initial design to final product.”
From Left: Kirryn Scicluna, Employment & Career Partner, My Gateway; Rhonda Sampson, Artist, RS Creative Solutions; Dianne Dayhew, CEO National Apprentice Employment Network; James Hunt, 1st Year Engineering Apprentice; Shelley Bullock, CEO, My Gateway.
In mid-2020 when the National Apprentice Employment Network (NAEN) was seeking Indigenous artwork designs for its website and corporate brochures, the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) referred them to the brilliant Aboriginal graphic designer, Rhonda Sampson.
Rhonda is a proud Kamilaroi woman and has designed artwork for the Mental Health Commission of NSW, One Door Mental Health, Souths Cares, Youth Off the Streets and Inner West Council, to name a few. In June, Rhonda was announced the Regional Winner of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award for Southern and South Western Sydney at the prestigious NSW Training Awards.
NAEN commissioned Rhonda to take a fresh look at its designs to reflect the diversity of its apprenticeship, traineeship and employment activities across Australia. Rhonda’s artwork, ‘Growing Futures’, has been a stunning success and has had a profound impact on NAEN staff and member organisations.
“It just took my breath away from the first time I saw it,” said NAEN CEO Dianne Dayhew.
“Rhonda seemed to have an instinctive feel from the outset about the type of organisation we are, the many young people we work with, and the way we want to engage with the community.
“It’s more than just a change of design – it’s had an uplifting effect on all of us”.
The design symbolically depicts NAEN as the central element, with branches extending to the apprentice employment networks in each of the states and territories.
“The footpath represents the journey of job seekers and apprentices and trainees,’ Rhonda said.
‘Along that journey, everything intertwines from the individuals themselves, the job seekers, their host businesses and their communities.’
The footprints in the artwork represent the Indigenous apprentices and trainees leaving their communities to embark on their employment journey.
One of those individuals is first-year engineering apprentice James Hunt who is undertaking a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade with host employer, GDH Fabrication. He has been placed and supported in the apprenticeship by Campbelltown based Group Training Organisation (GTO), My Gateway which is funded by NAEN along with other GTOs to provide these life-changing programs.
NAEN employs some 25,000 apprentices and trainees across Australia and places them with host businesses. It will incorporate Rhonda’s designs into its materials and hopes to work with Rhonda in the future to help reflect its extensive work with Indigenous communities.
