Tuesday, 2 June 2026

 Chris COUZENS (Geelong) (16:49): Since the commencement of reconciliation week last Thursday, I have had the pleasure of attending many events, including in my Geelong electorate. On Sunday, the annual Rec in the Park celebrated First Peoples and their culture. It was an opportunity for people to learn about our shared history, to participate in a welcome ceremony and to ask questions. I want to thank Geelong One Fire Reconciliation Group, Kiri, Marsha, Kristi and the community dancers and Corrina Eccles, Wadawurrung woman, for another successful Rec in the Park.

Last week I also attended the showcase of the Gordon TAFE First Peoples Culinary School. It is a first in this country. It is a great demonstration of what self-determination is all about. It was an exclusive culinary experience demonstrating the Wadawurrung people’s cooking methods, ingredients using the seasonal calendar and appropriate cultural practices based on years of research. I want to acknowledge and thank Jas, Cam and Luke, who have spent many hours using Wadawurrung research to develop the First Peoples culinary certificate III in an authentic, respectful and culturally appropriate way. I also acknowledge the deep listening and respect by the Gordon TAFE CEO Joe Ormeno and his team. They have clearly understood reconciliation and self-determination and put it into practice. This course has been designed in collaboration with First Peoples to empower and inspire the next generation of First Peoples’ culinary talent. It really does reflect a strong commitment to cultural knowledge, storytelling and excellence in hospitality.