Aboriginal Flag raising and smoking ceremony
Yadhung buurral (G’day).
February 8, 2023 was a very special occasion for us at Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust. This day now marks the raising of the Aboriginal flag for the first time at Jenolan Caves. The flag now flies above the Visitor precinct alongside the Australian flag and is placed in our Garden of Connection, especially planted to celebrate the day.
Gundungurra Elder, Aunty Sharyn Halls gave a Welcome to Country and along with David King raised the Aboriginal flag. Stakeholders attending this special occasion included Gundungurra Traditional Custodians, Oberon Council, Jenolan Caves Historical & Preservation Society, Jenolan Environment Protection Committee, local residents, staff and members of the local branches of the Emergency Services.
A particular highlight of the day was the traditional smoking ceremony conducted by David King to welcome everyone to Jenolan before inviting everyone in attendance to join in creating the garden of connection.
Binomeal Gundungurra ngalaamanyan ngurra – Jenolan Caves remains Gundungurra Country