MORE than 50 Aboriginal Elders from Inverell and Tingha converged
on the Masonic Hall in Inverell to celebrate the inaugural Elders Luncheon
hosted by Yurruun Aboriginal Corporation.
The
luncheon kick starts a bumper calendar of activities for the Inverell based
Yurruun (pronounced Yoo-roon), a non-profit support organisation that has been
established by local Gomeroi community members connected to Inverell, Tingha
and Ashford.
Chairperson
Leroy Connors explained “this luncheon is about bringing our mob together,
acknowledging our Elders and providing an opportunity to catch up with
others over a meal”.
“The
atmosphere in the hall has been terrific. There are people who have come along
who haven’t seen each other since before COVID, so there’s been lots of yarning
and laughter”.
“Too often, the
only time our Elders see each other is when there is Sorry Business, so events
like this are really important to combat loneliness and make sure our Elders
feel supported”.
“The feedback from
the Elders has been very positive and many have been asking when we can have
the next get together”.
“There
are six Aboriginal clans on the mountains and three Aboriginal Elders groups in
Inverell, Tingha and Ashford”.
“The Yurruun board members wouldn’t be the people we are today without
these Elders in our lives, and I thank Aboriginal Affairs NSW for their support
of today’s event.”
Mr Connors said the
event also provided the chance to gather feedback from the Elders for
Aboriginal programs, including youth programs, training, social wellbeing and recreational
opportunities.
Mr Connors paid
thanks to the volunteers who assisted behind the scenes to decorate the hall,
prepare the meal and clean up afterwards.
Yurruun will now
host a free community connection day and barbecue on Friday 21 April at
Victoria Park from 11.00am which is open to all members of the community.
