THE Coffs Coast group advocating for a ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming Australian Indigenous Voice referendum launched their campaign on Saturday 17 June at the Botanic Gardens.

The ‘Coffs and Surrounds for Yes’ group was established only three weeks ago and already has almost 100 members.

It is one of almost 100 community-based groups around Australia operating as part of the ‘Yes23’ campaign.

“We thought it was important to bring the volunteers together early on to meet each other, share the campaign strategy, and discuss plans for locally supporting a ‘Yes’ vote,” Co-Convenor Anita Tang said.

A mix of people from all walks of life came from as far north as Woolgoolga and as far south as Nambucca.

“It was incredible to have so many people come along and meet others who share a vision of how saying ‘Yes’ to the Voice can change Australia for the better,” said Anthony Ruge, a member of the coordinating team.

Based on RSVPs, the organisers expected around 30 people and were pleasantly surprised when twice that number showed up.

“We know that we have tight-knit and well-connected communities on the Coffs coast, and it’s clear that word of mouth played a role in having so many people here today,” said Deb Wall from the coordinating team.

Ms Anita Tang told the audience that the campaign will be conducted with respect and positivity and will be based on the spirit of reconciliation.

She emphasised the need to work together and act with values and build trust.

The Coffs Harbour Labor Branch has also thrown its support behind the ‘Yes23’ campaign.

“Coffs Labor is committed to supporting the ‘Yes23’ Campaign and the aspirations of Gumbaynggirr people for a Voice to Parliament,” Branch President Tony Judge said.

Mr Judge said the branch has chosen to support the official campaign instead of campaigning under a Labor banner to acknowledge the need for a process that everyone can support, regardless of political allegiance.

“A number of Liberal and National Party parliamentarians have given their support to the Voice, including former Indigenous Affairs Minister, Julian Leeser and National Party MP Andrew Gee,” he said, noting there is support for the Voice to be found across the political spectrum.

Mr Judge suggested that people who are unsure about the referendum listen to the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

“All Australians should be able to support an initiative that will make us a stronger, more compassionate country.”

The Coffs and Surrounds for Yes group is now planning its next event at the end of NAIDOC Week on Sunday July 9, ‘Come Together for Yes’, at the Harbourside Markets.

“Everyone is welcome to come along, to show support for ‘Yes’ or to ask questions and learn more about the referendum and the campaign,” said Simone Olsen, who is planning the event.

“Even better, bring your family and friends with you!”

Go to https://action.yes23.com.au/coffs_surrounds_for_yes to get involved.

By Andrew VIVIAN