We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Wingecarribee Reconciliation Group [WRG] are inviting Highlanders to attend the annual Myall Creek Massacre Memorial on Sunday 13 June.
The commemorative service at the Myall Creek Memorial site has been held annually since 2000.
WRG Co-Chair Gus Johnson said the day was a chance for non-Indigenous Australians to reflect on history whilst taking action in the present.
"We say sorry for the terrible loss and cruelty on that day and many other days and in many other places," Johnson said.
"We make amends for our forebears and the life of privilege and comfort we now enjoy. We celebrate the Wirrayaraay, Gomeroi and all our First Nations cultures and communities. We share our hopes and combine our strengths and resolve to make a better world for our First Nations and for ourselves."
While one of many massacres in Australia's colonial history, Myall Creek is well known as the only case of Europeans being held accountable in a court of law.
Seven of the 11 stockman who massacred at least 28 Wirrayaraay people camped at a cattle station on 10 June 1838 were hanged for their crimes.
Johnson said, while tragic, the memorial also served a celebration of survival for First Nations people.
"Of the some 250 massacres so far chronicled in NSW, including several in our own region (Appin, Bundanoon, Sutton Forest), this is the only one successfully prosecuted and recorded in the courts.
"There has been a major commemorative service held since 2000 and major works conducted to establish a significant memorial on this sacred site. It is a day not easily forgotten for its solemnity, power and celebration of the survival of our First Nations people and their culture."
The service will also feature an address by historian Professor Henry Reynolds who has written several books on frontier conflict.
The WRG are organising transport as well as limited accommodation although people are free to attend the event however they want. If you are interested please send Gus an email at reconciliation.wingecarribee@gmail.com.
Did you know the Southern Highland News is now offering breaking news alerts and a weekly email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up below.