Aboriginal Elders and community members have been thanked for their contributions to the City of Fremantle's new Walyalup Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2024-2027, during a ceremony held at Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre this week.
Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge presented copies of the RAP and gifts of appreciation to the City's working group, acknowledging their dedication and the significant role they played in developing the plan.
Mayor Fitzhardinge expressed gratitude for the dedication of both current and former working group members, acknowledging their role in laying the foundations for the City's first Stretch RAP.
She emphasised their wisdom and guidance continue to inspire the City's initiatives, fostering growth as an organisation and community.
Adopted in August and endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, the RAP outlines 17 actions and 95 deliverable outcomes to be achieved over the next three years.
It focuses on relationships, respect, opportunities, governance, and introduces a significant emphasis on truth-telling for the first time.
As part of its truth-telling initiative, the City recently hosted the Backyard Truth-Telling Series in partnership with the Centre for Stories.
The series provided a safe and welcoming space for Aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal allies to share stories about their lived experiences.
Building on this success, the City has announced plans for a First Nations Film Festival at Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre during the Australia Day long weekend.
The festival will feature screenings of three feature-length films and a short film, as well as Q&A sessions with acclaimed filmmaker Tom Murray, who specialises in truth-telling documentaries.
The weekend will also include a special First Nations edition of the Arts Centre's regular Sunday Music program.
Mayor Fitzhardinge confirmed Fremantle's next Citizenship Ceremony will take place on Thursday 23 January 2025, continuing the City's commitment to fostering inclusivity and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, the City is gearing up for Saturday's annual Wardarnji Noongar Cultural Festival at Esplanade Park in Walyalup/Fremantle.
Directed by renowned Nyoongar performer and producer Karla Hart, the festival celebrates Noongar culture through song, dance, and storytelling.
Audiences can enjoy a blend of traditional and contemporary performances from over 100 dancers of all ages.
The event also features market stalls showcasing the work of local Aboriginal artists, makers, and small business owners.
The festival promises to be a vibrant and meaningful celebration of Noongar heritage and culture, bringing the community together in the heart of Fremantle.
Food vendors will open from 4:30pm, with performances commencing at 5:30pm.
