Pilk Purriyn Traditional Owner truth-telling to return on 26 January
Published on 12 January 2024
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners will again welcome the Surf Coast community to Country in Torquay on 26 January for reflection at Pilk Purriyn – sunrise – and deep listening to historic truth-telling.
The event will return for a second year against the backdrop of Warri Dja (Sea Country) at Cosy Corner, welcoming people of all ages, genders, races, religions and backgrounds.
Starting at 5.30am with sun rising on the water, it will include a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, and traditional song and dance.
At its heart, Traditional Owners will share truths seeking to deepen community understanding of the traumas, loss and hurt that colonisation brought upon the First Peoples of the land.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation will again present the Pilk Purriyn event in collaboration with Surf Coast Shire Council and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, with the support of corporate sponsors GeelongPort and Give Where You Live.
About 2000 people attended the inaugural Pilk Purriyn event earlier this year. With attendance expected to increase in 2024 organisers are encouraging people to register for this free event via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PilkPurriyn to help gauge numbers and enable sharing of updates.
The Cosy Corner space is a unique natural environment of cultural significance to Wadawurrung people. Gathering together before first light, the emphasis will again be on deep listening and meaningful, compassionate presence.
Great Ocean Road Coast & Parks Authority Chief Executive Officer Jodie Sizer:
"As we come together at sunrise on Warri Dja for Pilk Purriyn, we proudly stand with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, recognising the profound importance of cultivating a space for respectful reflection and healing.”
“In supporting this event, we reaffirm our commitment to amplifying the voices, values, rights, and interests of all Rights Holders throughout the Great Ocean Road region."
“Organisers are committed to making this event as accessible as possible, while respecting the cultural significance and natural beauty of this outdoor site.”
Anyone who may find the terrain or lighting difficult is advised to arrive early with a support person if required. Those with additional access or support needs are encouraged to contact organisers directly at pilk-purriyn@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.
People can find more information, including event FAQs via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PilkPurriyn.
