Dean of Identity | Mr Charles Brauer

The way we gather

It was totally unexpected to run out into sunlight that bathed open grasslands of the seemingly densely forested Bunya Mountains National Park. After catching my breath (my lack of fitness was not unexpected!) I soon learnt that such open pastures are biological mosaics that the Dalla Aboriginal people intentionally cared for. The sustainable existence of these microhabitats that, much like a patchwork quilt, are scattered throughout the Bunya Mountains National Park. Beyond this discovery was another unexpected discovery. These very same locations have been used by the Aboriginal people of wider South-East Queensland for over 50 000 years.

Although I have a prior understanding of the gatherings of the Bunya Mountains area, my knowledge has grown that ‘gathering’ was, is, and will always be, of great importance for Indigenous Australians, and indeed humankind. The concept of gathering to celebrate, to discern, to resolve differences is deeply human. Marriages, birthdays, court systems, parliament, demonstrations, meal times are all expressions of gathering in a modern western world context. Last week’s NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Observance Committee) Week saw Australians gather in numerous locations around the country to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These gatherings focused on celebrating the essential role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait women have played - and continue to play - as active and significant role models at the community, local, state and national levels.

For more than 65 000 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have carried dreaming stories, song lines, languages and knowledge that have kept Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture strong, and enriched the oldest continuing culture on the planet.  

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have; marched, protested and spoken at demonstrations and national gatherings for the proper recognition of Indigenous rights and calling for national reform and justice, cared for their families while breaking down cultural and institutionalised barriers and gender stereotypes, committed to creating greater opportunities and - in many cases equal rights - for our children, our families and our people.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have been, and continue to be, pioneers and trailblazers with ensuring that our nation’s Indigenous identity, culture and history is cherished and celebrated among all people of our nation. Their achievements, their voice, their unwavering passion give our nation strength and have empowered past generations and pave the way for generations to come.

Discovering an open patch of grassland amongst a dense forest has enlightened me to the timeless power of that ‘gathering’ has, is, and always will be, for humankind. Our nation’s First Peoples travelled for months to honour the tradition of gathering, reminding us that gathering in the right spirit is deeply human.

I wish all members of our Terrace Family the very best for the semester ahead. May it be a fulfilling time for you and your family.