An article from Julie Mulhauser, President Balwyn Rotary (as appeared in Eastsider News)
Back in July, Balwyn Rotary brought together local community leaders to hear from Co-chair First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria Meriki Onus on Victoria’s historic Statewide Treaty and the shared journey towards reconciliation, justice and self-determination.
Image credit Li Tan (Source: RC Balwyn member)
This year’s annual NAIDOC-themed meeting at Balwyn Rotary was held a week after NAIDOC Week, following a clash with our club visit to the Camberwell Art Show. The change of date created a valuable opportunity to hear directly from Meriki Onus, Co-Chair of the Gellung Warl (First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria), about Victoria’s historic Statewide Treaty.
Meriki spoke passionately about why Treaty matters to all Victorians and how walking the path to Treaty together can help build a stronger, more united future. Attendees heard how Treaty has the potential to improve health, education and housing outcomes for First Peoples and contribute to genuinely Closing the Gap.
The evening brought together members from six Rotary clubs, three Boroondara councillors and representatives from two local community organisations - Murnong First Peoples Gathering Place and the Boroondara Reconciliation Network. Together, we listened, learned, asked thoughtful questions and engaged in meaningful conversations about reconciliation, justice and self-determination.
Balwyn Rotary, like many Rotary clubs across Australia, North America and Canada, has a proud tradition of promoting peace through supporting First Peoples’ justice, inclusion and self-determination. Events such as this reaffirm our commitment to empowering First Peoples and walking alongside them on the journey towards reconciliation and Treaty.
The path to Treaty is one we must walk together.