Benalla Rural City Council has marked National Reconciliation Week 2026 with three community events that brought people together to reflect on shared histories, learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and strengthen relationships across the community.
This year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, ‘All In’, encouraged everyone to take part in reconciliation through respect, understanding and positive change.
On Wednesday 27 May, Benalla Library hosted a Reconciliation and Treaty conversation with Isobel Morphy-Walsh, the reserved seat holder for Taungurung Land and Waters Council, and Levi Power, general member for the North East Region of Gellung Warl. They both shared their stories and spoke about Treaty as a pathway towards reconciliation with over 35 community members. The event also featured Aunty Cheryl Cooper unveiling her latest textile artwork.
Council also hosted a free community documentary screening of In My Blood It Runs at Benalla Cinema on Monday 1 June, with over 45 people attending the evening. The feature length documentary follows Dujuan, a 10-year-old Arrernte/Garrwa boy, as he navigates the challenges of growing up Aboriginal in Australia, along the way exploring themes of identity, education and First Nations cultural survival.
The Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG), Waminda Community House and the Rotary Club of Benalla partnered to deliver a barbecue lunch at Waminda Community House on Thursday 28 May. Around 50 community members attended.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the Council hosted events provided meaningful opportunities for the community to listen, learn and reflect on reconciliation.
“National Reconciliation Week is an important time for us to come together and consider how we can each contribute to reconciliation,” Cr Hearn said.
“These events create space for respectful conversation, shared learning and a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and experiences.”
“I thank Aunty Cheryl Cooper, Isobel Morphy-Walsh, Levi Power and everyone who took part in this year’s events. By listening to one another and learning together, we continue to build stronger relationships and a more inclusive future for Benalla Rural City,” Cr Hearn said.