Taking place over 200 years ago at Cataract Gorge on Dharawal land on April 17, the group joined hundreds of others led by the Dharawal people who suffered the greatest loss of life on that day.

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A Gundungurra elder and chief of the Southern Highlands region, Cannabayagal, was also killed in the attack, his body one of those desecrated and strung up in trees to terrorise surviving First Nations people

It is thought that other Gundungurra from the Southern Highlands also were killed that day. Local Dharawal people claim that in total over 100 were killed, although the official body count reported was 14.

Many more fell to their deaths off the cliffs into the gorge, as they tried in vain to escape the killing of all in the camp, men women, children and babies. The full death toll will probably never be known.

Yesterday was a celebration of the survival of the Dharawal people, their culture, community and relationship to their land.

The crowd heard that though beset with many challenges and hardships, past wrongs are finally being recognised, leaders are emerging, and the non-aboriginal community are learning of the history and the culture of our first Nations people.

Dharawal elder auntie Glenda Chalker welcomed all to country. Our own Gundungurra Elder and Chair of WRG, auntie Trish Levett, honoured the brave elder, Cannabayagal, who was shot trying to protect the community that day.

There was a smoking ceremony to cleanse hearts, motives and trauma. A minutes' silence was observed in honour of those killed. Those present also enjoyed traditional dancing of stories by the Wiritjiribin dance group.

Wollondilly Shire Deputy mayor Matthew Deeth spoke passionately of his vision and efforts of justice for and empowerment of the Dharawal and other First Nations, and for community reconciliation. There were prayers and songs of grief and hope by local Catholic and Anglican ministers.

The Macarthur Indigenous Fellowship choir sang Amazing Grace. Uncle Ivan Wellington officiated throughout the service with his trademark wit and wisdom. Uncle Ivan's radiating joy and warmth is infectious.

First Nations mob from all over the state were represented with people from Dubbo and the state's far north. The Friends of Myall Creek massacre committee was represented by Jo Miller, Charmaine and Michaela.

The Appin massacre is the most significant massacre in the Sydney region. It is notable in that it was specifically ordered by the most powerful person of the colony, NSW governor Lachlan Macquarie. It indicates a systematic process of violent forced disposition of the original owners. Under British law it was theft of the land, as no treaty existed.

Thank you to the Winga Myamly Reconciliation Group, and Sister Kerry, for organising the event and to Wollondilly and Campbelltown Councils for BBQ lunch and their ongoing financial support.

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