The SquizLog

A Momentous Day for Australia

What had begun as a few drops turned into an unrestrained downpour of rain. The symbolism was unmistakable.

Together with others in the Gosford community I was listening to the Australian Prime Minister's historic apology to the indigenous people of this land for the injustices of past governments. It was as if the rain was an emotional message from the country that the healing of our nation could begin.

Just as tears were flowing from the sky, tears on faces nearby showed the emotion of the moment. And just as the conclusion of Kevin Rudd's speech evoked a spontaneous standing ovation in Canberra, the applause from those gathered in the gardens at East Gosford was heart-felt. Together we had witnessed a defining moment in Australia's history.

I was glad to be there to share the experience, hear some moving responses from indigenous leaders in the local community as well as see some marvellous performances from the NAISDA dance group.

At the end of the ceremony we listened to a recording of Archie Roach singing Took the Children Away. I had heard this plaintive, haunting song many years before and couldn't help but be moved. In today's context it resonated more hope.

I hope that today's ceremony, as important as it has been as part of healing the relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous people in this land, leads to real improvements in the lives of indigenous Australians.