First Nations Telegraph

The City of Rockingham proudly hosted the Mooriboordup Koober Birats (Rockingham Fun Day) at the Village Green recently as part of its Summer Series of free-entry, family-friendly, smoke-free and alcohol-free events.  

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Hosted as part of Harmony Week 2022, Mooriboordup Koober Birats gave community members a chance to celebrate Nyoongar culture; with opportunities to learn, experience, and engage with various activities.

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Nyoongar Traditional Owner Rose Walley provided the Welcome to Country, before attendees relaxed with didgeridoo sound therapy by Nyoongar Elder George Walley from Mandjoogoordap Dreaming, and were entertained by a performance from Boorloo dance group Little Doorum. Storytelling from Cheryl Martin and art activities with Lea Taylor from Creative Culture also delighted visitors.

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City of Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamblin said the event helped to grow and nurture community connectedness and wellbeing, which was a key aspiration for the City.

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“Harmony Week celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity, with a strong focus on inclusiveness, respect and ensuring a sense of belonging for everyone. Mooriboordup Koober Birats strongly aligns with this and provided attendees with a chance to immerse themselves in Nyoongar culture,” Mayor Hamblin said.

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“Aboriginal heritage and inclusion is a significant strategic objective for the City. By giving community members a chance to actively engage with Nyoongar culture, this event also supported the overarching aims of the City’s Reconciliation Action Plan 2021 – 2023.”

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“While Mooriboordup Koober Birats was the last major event to be held as part of the City’s Summer Series for 2021/2022, we still have a number of smaller events scheduled before the end of March including tai chi, yoga and Zumba at the Rockingham Foreshore. We hope to see you there.”