Corroboree of Thanks in Wollombi

On 22 September Aboriginal people stage a Corroboree of Thanks in Wollombi. This symbolic gesture of reconciliation between the Wollombi Valley community and the Aboriginal community marks a special moment in the restoration of pride and goodwill for all involved. Support of Aboriginal land claims in the district was widespread throughout the preceding months and this coming together of peoples helped foster the spirit of reconciliation in the broader population. Representing a number of different tribal groups across New South Wales, men perform traditional dances in what is probably the first public display of its kind held in the lower Hunter in more than 170 years. The Selwood family host the event and prepare the corroboree ground for thousands of people. The day begins with a historic raising of the Aboriginal flag at Wollombi. Three tribal custodians from northern New South Wales attend: Uncles Mangie (Alfred) Drew (77 years), Lennie de Silva (76 years) and Leeton Smith (71 years).