Wednesday, 27 August 2025

Koorie Heritage Trust

Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (18:42): (1882) My adjournment matter for tonight is directed to the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples in the other place. Progress is not always linear. It moves at its own pace, even one stitch at a time. Last week I had the privilege of representing the minister at the Koorie Heritage Trust’s 40th anniversary celebrations, which coincided with the official opening of Aunty Connie Hart’s exhibition One Stitch at a Time. The exhibition is a remarkable reflection of the strength, creativity and resilience of First Peoples’ cultural practices. Each stitch tells a story and connects us to something far larger than ourselves – to culture, to community and to the continuation of knowledge across generations. It is a reminder that traditions, when nurtured and celebrated, are never lost.

The Koorie Heritage Trust has been central to this work for four decades. Since its founding, it has provided a place in the heart of Melbourne where everyone can engage with and learn from the world’s oldest living culture. It stands not just as a gallery but as a gathering place where our culture is shared, taught and carried forward. For many, myself included, the trust is deeply personal. I still remember vividly visiting as a child and being absolutely immersed. To see the trust flourish in its 40th year, including 10 years located proudly at Federation Square, is something truly special and a testament to the dedication of its supporters. That success is not possible without people. I want to acknowledge the leadership of CEO Tom Mosby, co-chairs Indi Clarke and Aunty Janice Muir, Daniel Ross and the whole Koorie Heritage Trust team. Their enthusiasm for this exhibition was on full display and entirely infectious. The action I seek is for the minister to provide information about how the Allan Labor government has supported the Koorie Heritage Trust in its important work.