Hundreds gather to reflect on Australia’s shared history Camden Haven Camden Haven News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - February 2, 2025 Amaya, Ariah, Norah and Ahzara enjoy the waves at Oxley Beach. AGAINST the backdrop of Oxley Beach, hundreds of people gathered for a sunrise ceremony on Sunday, 26 January to pay respect to the First Nations people of Australia. Beginning at 5:45am, the event was led by Birrbay/Dhanggati Elder Aunty Rhonda Radley, who acknowledged the effects of colonisation and the pressing need for a more inclusive society. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au During the sunrise ceremony a candle was lit, symbolising a commitment to truth, justice and remembrance. The group observed the dawn in silence before moving down to the beach in unison, where many attendees then ventured into the ocean. Speaking to NOTA, attendee Donna-Maree Elliott spoke of the importance of celebrating Australia while acknowledging the pain and feelings of exclusion felt by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. “Today is about commemorating Australia as a whole and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people still not feeling as though they are part of that whole,” said Donna-Maree “Today is the 26th of January and that is the date that changed everything. “Let’s continue to celebrate Australia but the date needs to change.” For Birrbay/Dunghutti woman Alarne Gili Mehan, the morning was a somber reminder of the historic losses suffered by First Nations people, with the sunrise ceremony serving as a metaphor for the enduring presence and resilience of Indigenous communities. “Today is a day of mourning,” said Alarne Gili Mehan. “January 26 symbolises the loss of culture, livelihood and many lives of First Nations people. “The choice of a sunrise ceremony carries a profound message, reflecting that the First Nations People were here for the first sunrise and we will be here until the last dusk. “By bringing ‘community’ together we hope that the message of consideration of our relationship to moments in time is dispersed, including historical events.” By Kim AMBROSE Attendees reflect in silence. Attendees reflect in silence. Hundreds of people gathered for the sunrise event, led by Birrbay/Dhanggati Elder Aunty Rhonda Radley. The lit candle symbolised a commitment to truth, justice and remembrance. Attendees moved down to the sand in silence at the conclusion of the ceremony. Hundreds stand along the shoreline, united in reflection. Amaya, Ariah, Norah and Ahzara enjoying the ocean.
