Slowly but surely, April 17 is becoming embedded into Campbelltown’s list of events important enough to mark on an annual basis.
So it was that this morning, in the forecourt of the administration building of Campbelltown City Council, that a moving ceremony took place to honour and remember the local Aboriginal people who died in what is known as the Appin Massacre.
The evocative sound produced by a didgeridoo, played by Indigenous man Norm Chillingsworth set the scene for a sombre ceremony.
It was followed by a wonderful welcome to country by Auntie Glenda Chalker, who also reminded those present of the continuing hurt felt by the descendants of those who lost their lives on April 17, 1816.
Mayor Darcy Lound (below) also delivered an eloquent message about what the ceremony symbolised.
“This important event of remembrance helps us make space for healing and meaningful reconciliation,’’ he said.
“It is also a powerful reminder of the need to continue working towards reconciliation through truth telling and mutual respect.’’
The flag raising ceremony involved all four flags in the council’s forecourt raised to the very top and then lowered to half mast.
This was followed by a minute’s silence when everyone in attendance was asked to stand as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives all those years ago.
For those who may be interested, the Winga Myamly Reconciliation Group will also be holding a memorial ceremony this Sunday, April 19, at the Cataract Dam picnic area.
This also has now become an annual tradition and attracts very large crowds to the site when the tragedy occurred 210 years ago.
