Hundreds attend Say Yes rally

Hundreds of people attended the Say Yes rally on Sunday, organised by the Bass Coast for Yes group.

Themed “Walking together, belonging together”, the walk for Yes kicked off with a march from Mitchell House in Wonthaggi down McBride Street ending in a rally at Wishart Park.

Organisers said the colourful crowd of supporters, many wearing different variations of Yes T-shirts, included a mix of ages and backgrounds all united by their support of the upcoming referendum.

At the conclusion of the march the estimated 300 walkers entered Wishart Park lead by local elder Uncle Anthony Egan to a backdrop of the anthem of the campaign, John Farnham’s “You’re The Voice” and the cheers of waiting supporters.

The event’s total attendance of more than 350 people is believed to be one of the strongest supporter turn outs in regional Victoria.

Attendees were addressed by Bass Coast Yes campaign Chair Kevin Walsh, followed by a Welcome To Country and smoking ceremony conducted by local Traditional Owner from the Bunurong Land Council Jillian West.

Jillian spoke of her own connection to the cause and invited attendees to participate in the smoking ceremony.

Speakers, described by attendees as “uplifting” and “inspiring”, included Nicole Findlay and Professor Andrew Gunstone from Reconciliation Victoria, Marg Lynn from the Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group, ALP Senator for Victoria Jess Walsh and Uncle Charles Pakana.

Also attending were Bass MP Jordan Crugnale and Bass Coast Shire Mayor Cr Michael Whelan and councillors Leticia Laing and Geoff Ellis.

One attendee told the Advertiser the speakers emphasised the importance of coming together on the issue.

Another said they were moved by the positive atmosphere on the day.

“It was motivated people that were generous with their time and passionate about walking together,” they said.

“It was energising to feel you weren’t that much of a minority and it showed that knowledge is getting out there.”

One walker said they felt the referendum had become “divisive and political when it didn’t need to be”.

Described by Kevin Walsh as a “smashing success” the Bass Coast Yes campaign organisers were thrilled with the event attendance.

“It’s so reassuring to see such a wonderful turn out and such strong community commitment to supporting Voice,” a group spokesperson said.

“Thanks to everyone who attended — we all aspire to a more inclusive and reconciled Australia.”

The referendum will be held on October 14.

For information on voting, polling booths and pre-polling stations, go to: aec.gov.au/referendums/