Air Force aviators and Worimi Elders inaugurated the RAAF Base Williamtown Ngarralbaa (yarning circle) on December 5.
Worimi Elders provided a welcome and smoking ceremony prior to a round-circle facilitation by RAAF Williamtown Indigenous Liaison Officer Flight Lieutenant Coen Henry, involving self-reflection on 2023 with about 100 people.
A number of people spoke during the inauguration including Worimi Elder Aunty Lorraine Lilley, RAAF Williamtown Senior ADF Officer Group Captain Anthony Stainton and Flight Lieutenant Henry.
Aunty Lorraine said the Worimi have a great relationship with RAAF Base Williamtown and the senior ADF officer.
“It is a strong partnership and has been for quite a while now. This is a very important space, I am trusting that it will be used and respected in the coming years,” Aunty Lorraine said.
“I am quite impressed with the number of people participating in the smoking ceremony and discussion.”
Group Captain Stainton said it was thanks to Flight Lieutenant Henry that after many years and hurdles there is now a Ngarralbaa space opposite the Len Waters Building where people can gather and share stories.
“It is the yin and yang and balance where important meetings take place, and in a prominent position for all members to share, care for and enjoy,” Group Captain Stainton said.
“There will be many people who continue to benefit from this fantastic facility.”
Flight Lieutenant Henry described the Ngarralbaa as a space of deep listening, learning and reflection.
“It is a space where everyone is equal and heard without judgement or interruption,” Flight Lieutenant Henry said.
“Importantly, RAAF Base Williamtown acknowledges that this space is situated on the lands of the Worimi people, the traditional custodians of this region.
“We are united in our belief of ‘One Team, One Culture’.
“We are stronger when we stand together, united as one.”
