Sharing First Nations women’s voices

Everything from women’s health and wellbeing through to education, employment, training and economic development were topics of concern at the inaugural Mid West Aboriginal Women’s Conference in September.

Hosted by the Mid West Aboriginal Women’s Group at Gunnado Farm in Walkaway, more than 170 women came together for the two-day event to share their voices on current community initiatives impacting First Nations women and their families. YMAC assisted with sponsorship for the Elders’ Dinner through its Community Partnerships program, acknowledging the voices of matriarchs and women in the community.

After a Welcome to Country by Donna Ronan, day one featured various speakers, including Senator for WA Sue Lines and community-based social advocate Jackie Oakley, as well as Leanne Taylor performing A Song from the Heart for our Women and an Aboriginal healing session from Rayleen Councillor.

Discussions on day two focused on real-life experiences in relation to numerous topics including children and youth, parents and families, community and language, culture, and Aboriginality.

A panel including Ms Oakley, former Kimberley MLA Carol Martin, community and cultural consultant Jenny Kniveton, Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton and Streeties CEO Chloe Collard facilitated feedback to develop recommendations.

Yamatji Art was also on hand to develop a collaborative piece of artwork, representing participants from 11 language groups across the Yamatji region.