Sorry Day in Bass Coast

The Bass Coast community gathered at the Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club to commemorate National Sorry Day on May 26.

This national day aims to promote healing through truth-telling about the stolen generations, the people who suffered and the ongoing strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The day started with a smoking ceremony and flag raising at the front of the club, and then everybody moved upstairs to share a cuppa and listen to the speakers.

Patrice Mahoney OAM was MC and special guest speaker Paul Patten shared the story of his father-in-law Tommy – a survivor of the stolen generation. Paul finished his presentation by performing the song “Strong Black Woman” that he wrote about his grandmother when she passed away.

This is an annual event in the community presented by Bass Coast Reconciliation Network made up of Bass Coast Health, Westernport Water, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bass Coast Shire Council and Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Network.

My Community Library and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority also supported the event that is growing each year.

Well over 150 people attend to be part of truth-telling, and moving forward as a united community towards healing.