Gumbaynggirr country set the scene for a celebration of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s third Reconciliation Action Plan and the annual First Nations Staff Conference, held in September. 

The Society’s latest Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), endorsed by Reconciliation Australia at the Innovate level, affirms our commitment to First Nations justice, strengthening ties to communities and creating opportunities for economic participation.  

Pete’s Place in Coffs Harbour was selected to showcase our RAP by recognising the connection many of the people we assist have to Gumbaynggirr country. More than half of the people supported by Pete’s Place identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander; the service has worked hard to develop local connections in consultation and alongside the people we assist to cultivate a welcoming and culturally-safe environment.  

Local Elder Aunty Jenny gave a Welcome to Country followed by a smoking ceremony from traditional owner Matt Flanders, which allowed attendees to cleanse themselves with the smoke.  

The celebration brought together people from across the Society, local Aboriginal organisations and the people we assist in the name of advancing reconciliation.  

Leading into the RAP celebration First Nations colleagues from all parts of the Society took part in the second annual First Nations Staff Conference to connect, build foundations, and support the development and progression of the Society’s inclusion, diversity, and First Nations priorities.   

The Society has committed to hosting a First Nations conference annually, allowing employees to travel to different traditional lands to experience culture and connection to country.  

Staff connected and yarned on the first day about ‘walking in two worlds’ as First Nations people who belong as part of the Society, before being joined by the Executive Leadership Team on how to improve cultural safety on day two.  

The second day also saw the Policy and Advocacy team present on our social justice engagement and sought input from the network to inform our upcoming Social Justice Statement on First Nations justice.  

The conference ended with a cultural immersion activity by Matt Flanders, who showcased handmade artefacts used by the traditional owners to connect and care for country.  

“He showed us how his respect and care for country can also then utilise country through cultural protocol and following lore,” said Samantha McGuire, First Nations Engagement Manager at the Society. 

“Each mob has different tools that are specific to the way in which they operate and live.  

“It was great to share culture, community and connection.”