The National Reconciliation Week 2025 theme was Bridging Now to Next

In it's 16th year, Reconciliation in the Park on 25 May was particularly strong this year. 

In her first year as Programmer, Kiri Tawhai sees this event as part of the reconciliation movement of Djilang (Geelong).

• Pre event music workshop for young local First Nations singers – building skills and confidence for this group who then performed at Rec in the Park
• New youth focused activity was a relaxed space for young people to be a part of the day
• New activity for everyone: What does culture mean to you?
• A space to share decisions to act: What are you doing for Reconciliation?
• Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative stall and health centre van bringing connection, Culture centred space and care
• A lot of feedback about the welcoming and caring atmosphere of the day. Mob felt safe in this self-determined space. Non-Indigenous people hugely appreciated the space to connect with First Nations community, listen, learn, be fully part of the local reconciliation movement on the long-term journey. 
• Many conversations, including about the Djilang timeline and Treaty at the Geelong One Fire stall, with eagerness to participate.

Photos by Kiri Tawhai, Paul McKenna & Vicky Grosser. More at https://www.facebook.com/recinthepark/