Yarramundi Lecture shines a light on healing country

Western Sydney University was proud to host its annual Yarramundi Lecture exploring the 2021 NAIDOC theme ‘Heal Country’ on Thursday, 9 December.

A moving celebration of Indigenous history, culture and achievements, the online event brought together students, staff and members of the community.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, Professor Michelle Trudgett, said the Yarramundi Lecture was a forum for connecting and listening to leaders in the community.

“This year’s Yarramundi Lecture highlighted the voices of some of our most prominent leaders and Elders who shared their insights,” said Professor Trudgett.

“The compelling discussions focused on a shared vision for embracing Indigenous knowledge and understanding of Country.”

Uncle Harry Allie, Elder and Member of the Indigenous Elder Advisory Committee of Western Sydney University said that it was his honour to add to the robust discussions facilitated throughout the Yarramundi Lecture about the opportunities and challenges facing Indigenous people.

“The Yarramundi Lecture, now in its 24th year, forms part of the University’s longstanding commitment to its Indigenous Australian communities. It was a great opportunity to advocate for and share the voices of our academics, staff, students and Elders,” said Uncle Harry.

Esteemed guest speakers at the lecture included:

  • Distinguished Professor Larissa Behrendt, Chair of Indigenous Research, Director of Research and Academic Programs Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, University of Technology Sydney.
  • Uncle Harry Allie, Elder and Member of the Indigenous Elder Advisory Committee, Western Sydney University.
  • Dr Paul Saunders, PhD Student and Research Fellow, Western Sydney University.
  • Leanne Markovic, Student and Casual PASS online facilitator, Western Sydney University.

The Yarramundi Lecture is part of Western Sydney University’s longstanding commitment to supporting Indigenous people’s aspirations, including across education, research and as future leaders.

It provides a forum for the discussion of issues of local and national importance and was established out of respect and recognition of First Nations People. It has become central to the University's longstanding commitment to its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Read more about Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Strategy 2020-2025 here (opens in a new window).

ENDS

15 December 2021

Media Unit

Photo Credit: Sally Tsoutas