Children a part of Hawkesbury Community Outreach Services at McMahons Park, Kurrajong received a special lesson on the Aboriginal flag during a presentation and smoke ceremony earlier this month.
Uncle Lex travelled from the Blue Mountains to conduct the smoking ceremony on a new flag, which Macquarie MP Susan Templeman presented to the centre.
"Uncle Lex told the children all about the Country on which they were standing, Aboriginal languages of the area, and the importance of looking after Mother Earth and each other," she said.
"He also invited all the children to take part in the smoking ceremony after we had cleansed the flag. It was very touching watching some of the older children holding the hands of the younger ones as they went through the smoke, while Uncle Lex sang in language.
"I was also really impressed with the children's knowledge of the symbolism of the Aboriginal flag and dreamtime stories."
The centre has a bush tucker and community garden space at the front of the building that features two new flag poles.
"The Aboriginal flag will now fly proudly next to the Australian flag outside the centre," Ms Templeman said.
Community organisations that would like to be considered for a new flag should contact Ms Templeman's office via email susan.templeman.mp@aph.gov.au.
Finn Coleman
I understand the importance of community news in highlighting stories that members of local communities care about - including events, businesses, sports and the people that make towns unique. Email me at finn.coleman@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0437 550 909
I understand the importance of community news in highlighting stories that members of local communities care about - including events, businesses, sports and the people that make towns unique. Email me at finn.coleman@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0437 550 909
