The golden sands of Coogee Beach will come to life this Friday at a National Reconciliation Week event recognising the histories, ceremony and traditions of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.

First Nations dancers, musicians and artists will take over the beach for Koojay Corroboree, an annual free public event presented by Randwick City Council, in partnership with the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch said that Koojay Corroboree is a celebration and acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ culture, art and tradition, and a chance for non-Indigenous people in Australia to reflect, learn and consider the future of reconciliation.

“Koojay Corrobboree is a profoundly moving event. Performers extend to us an invitation to learn more about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to consider how we can take action to progress reconciliation.”

Koojay Corroboree

• 11:00 – 1:00pm, Friday 31 May 2024
• Coogee Beach Rainbow Walkway, centre of beach promenade (in line with corner of Arden St & Coogee Bay Rd)
• Free event

Noeleen Timbery, Chairperson of the La Perouse Aboriginal Land Council said the annual event is a celebration of culture, community and connection.

“Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to come together, reflect on our shared history and envision our hopes for a reconciled and united future.

“The annual Koojay Corroboree embodies this spirit. We are, after all, part of the world’s oldest living culture, and that’s something I think all Australians should be really proud of.”

This year’s event marks the 15^th anniversary of Koojay Corroboree, and features a market on-site, with First Nations artists and makers selling their work.

The program includes a smoking ceremony, a special performance of the national anthem sung in Dharawal Language by Cianna Walker and Olivia Coe Fox, and five dance performances, including by students from Chifley and La Perouse public schools.

National Reconciliation Week runs from 27 May – 3 June each year, dates that mark significant milestones in the country’s reconciliation journey, such as the 1967 referendum and the historic Mabo decision. This year’s theme is Now More Than Ever.

“Council recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have an unbroken spiritual and cultural connection with the land, sea and sky, which long pre-dates European settlement”, said Mayor Veitch.

“This year’s theme serves as a timely reminder that the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples must continue. It is an invitation to all of us to work together to create a brighter future for our community and our country.”

Full program information and a list of stallholders is available on Council’s website.

Media enquiries:

Matthew Phillips, 0408 541 717 or matt.phillips@randwick.nsw.gov.au