It seems the Dungog Reconciliation group's raffle prize was predestined to find its new home.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The beautiful handmade oversized lap quilt was made using ethically sourced Indigenous fabrics from Aboriginal Fabrics Gallery in Alice Springs.
As part of local NAIDOC week celebrations a small group of people gathered for the drawing of the much coveted Reconciliation Quilt raffle on Tuesday, July 6.
The winning ticket was bought by Marion Johnson of Shoal Bay. Marion's late husband, The Hon Les R Johnson AM, was the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs in the Whitlam Government.
"How wonderful to have won the Reconciliation Quilt," said Mrs Johnson.
"My husband was with (Gough) Whitlam when he poured soil into the hands of Vincent Lingiari, symbolising the handing back of land to the Gurindgi people in 1975.
"Sadly his work in government was cut short by the then Governor General.
"Les would have been delighted that the Reconciliation Quilt is to have a place in my home. He was always supportive of furthering the Rights of First Nation People."
The Hon Les Johnson AM was also the Returning Officer in the 1967 Referendum and a strong supporter of Reconciliation.
Sarah Crawford from Reconciliation Dungog said the group was delighted that the quilt has found its way to Mrs Jonson's home.
"The second prize of the beautiful ceramic pot was won by Bruce Read who is a great supporter of Reconciliation Dungog," said Ms Crawford.
"Thank you everyone who bought tickets.. Funds raised will help our group support, educate and inspire our community to engage in reconciliation activities.
"Reconciliation Dungog acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and visit. We pay respect to Elders past and present, extending this respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples we encounter on our journeys."
New members are welcome and you can find more information from the group convenor Jenny Akers on 0405 193 703.
High School's NAIDOC Week Celebrations
Dungog High School students celebrated NAIDOC Week in the last week of Term 2 enjoying a range of activities from a local on country experience, exploring scarring trees at The Common, to hosting a fun filled day of culture experiences for the local primary schools with Murrook Cultural Centre. Students and staff enjoyed a barbcue and a contemporary bush tucker lunch which raised $859, all funds going towards Indigenous focused resources for all students to use in the school.
Do you have a local story to share with readers?
If you have an event coming up or some good news to share - we would love to hear from you. Email mail.dungogchronicle@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call our journalist Michelle Mexon on 0417 572 594.
