2. Today we celebrate a special moment in our country’s history. We honour the Aboriginal peoples of this land, the oldest continuing cultures in human history.

3. We remember with pride that on the 13 th of February 2008 the Prime Minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd, said “Sorry” for the wrongs that have been inflicted on a proud race of people and a proud culture.

5. ALL READ: I remember with pride that a new page in Australia’s history has turned and I am part of a new chapter that aims to righting the wrongs of the past.

6. All READ: I am proud to have witnessed that this apology was offered as part of the healing of our nation.

7. ALL READ: I am proud to say we are truly blessed to have among us— cultures that provide a unique, uninterrupted human thread linking our Australian continent to the most ancient prehistory of our planet

8. ALL READ: I am ready to confront the, uncomfortable truth—facing it, dealing with it, moving on from it. I stand tall and proud united so that one day we will be a fully reconciled nation.

9. ALL READ: I am proud I have a open mind to speak for the ones who are voiceless, listen with open ears and see with new eyes

10. ALL READ: I am proud to say that; what has happened to the Aboriginal people must never, never happen again.

12. ALL READ: Today I wear this badge close to my heart with great pride, because I am proud this has happened in my life time. A true sacred moment in our history that should never be forgotten.

13. Australian Blessing May you always stand as tall as a tree, Be as strong as the rock Uluru, Be as gentle and still as the morning mist, Hold the warmth of the campfire in your heart, And may the Creator Spirit always walk with you. E Pike 1997

14. The artwork represents the coming together in the name of reconciliation. Featured in the artwork is the coolomon that nourishes and cradles us all. Artwork by Reanna Bono, Wiradjuri and Wemba Wemba.