Share Article

Georges River Council marks National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week

May 20, 2026

Georges River Council in NSW will mark National Reconciliation Week and National Sorry Day with a program of events  highlighting the 2026 theme, “All In,” and inviting the community to reflect, learn, and act together.

The Council said this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, “All In,” calls on all Australians to commit to reconciliation every day. The theme underscores shared responsibility and real action, framing the Council’s activities as opportunities to build understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures.

Key Points

  • Georges River Council to observe National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week
  • Program runs 23 May to 3 June, with “All In” theme
  • National Sorry Day event on Sunday 24 May at Oatley Park Foreshore
  • Walk on Country with Uncle Dean Kelly and yarning circles planned
  • Aunty Barb Simms and Aunty Calita Murray to lead discussions
  • Fiestaville Multicultural Choir to perform at the Sorry Day event
  • Additional activities include Bush Tucker session and craft station

Announcing the program, Georges River Council noted a range of events and initiatives will be held across the area. The focus, according to the Council, is on respectful engagement and participation that recognises the voices and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“This is an important time for our community,” council mayor Elise Borg said.

The Council described the period from 23 May to 3 June as a time to reflect, learn, and act, aligning with the “All In” theme’s emphasis on collective commitment. Activities have been organised to support community participation and to foster meaningful conversations grounded in listening and shared responsibility.

National Sorry Day event

To recognise National Sorry Day, the Council is partnering with Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation for its annual National Sorry Day event. The gathering will be held at Oatley Park Foreshore on Sunday 24 May.

The program for the day includes a Walk on Country with Uncle Dean Kelly and yarning circles with Aunty Barb Simms and Aunty Calita Murray. In solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the Fiestaville Multicultural Choir will also perform at the event.

These activities are designed to create spaces for learning, reflection, and community connection. The schedule centres on direct engagement and cultural respect, consistent with the “All In” theme’s focus on everyday action.

Alongside the National Sorry Day gathering, the Council has outlined further activities during Reconciliation Week aimed at deepening understanding and fostering participation across the community. These include:

  • A Bush Tucker session at Gungah Bay Reserve, led by Koori Kinnections after a Bushcare planting event
  • A Reconciliation-themed craft station at Hurstville Museum & Gallery

https://www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au/Community/Our-Community/Aboriginal-and-Torres-Strait-Islander-Communities/Reconciliation-Week

Peter Rowe

Peter Rowe leads First Nations News as Editor, with over three decades of experience across international newsrooms, digital platforms and media strategy roles. For the past 20 years, he’s worked in Australia – reporting, editing and advising on stories that shape public debate.