Muswellbrook Shire Council has adopted a Together Statement as its official Acknowledgement of Country, committing to reconciliation and partnership with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Council's Aboriginal Reference Group developed the statement through consultation involving the mayor, local primary and secondary schools and the Muswellbrook Shire Youth Council.
It replaces the council's previous Acknowledgement of Country, adopted in 2005, and reflects the importance of cultural heritage, collaboration and community relationships.
The Aboriginal Reference Group identified the statement as a commitment to recognising community leaders and working together.
"The Together Statement highlights the importance of working together with respect and understanding," the Aboriginal Reference Group said.
"It recognises the contributions and lessons of past and present community leaders and how they help shape a stronger future for our community.
"It is a commitment to working together."
The Together Statement reads in full:
"Muswellbrook Shire Council is proud to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live."
"We pay our respects to First Nations Leaders and Elders, past, present and emerging who are the keepers of history, traditions, knowledge and culture.
"We commit to working in collaboration with Traditional Owners in a spirit of Reconciliation and partnership.
"As we meet today, let us reflect on the knowledge and stories that have been shared on this land for thousands of generations and commit to walking together in a spirit of respect and understanding."
Muswellbrook Shire Mayor Jeff Drayton recognised the Aboriginal Reference Group, students and Youth Council members for their contributions.
"The Together Statement is more than an acknowledgement," Mr Drayton said.
"It represents Council's commitment to working alongside Traditional Owners and our broader Aboriginal community with respect and understanding.
"I thank the Aboriginal Reference Group, local students and members of the Youth Council who contributed to developing a statement that is meaningful to our community."
The Together Statement will be delivered as the first item of business at council meetings and used at citizenship ceremonies, January 26th events, official openings and in council's official documents.
Mr Drayton linked its adoption to council's responsibilities in its daily activities.
"By adopting the statement, Council is committing to carrying its message of respect, understanding and partnership through our meetings, civic events and everyday work," Mr Drayton said.
The adoption supports council's commitment to recognising and celebrating local Aboriginal culture, strengthening relationships and developing inclusive approaches to consultation and engagement.
