LOCAL organisation the Marruk Project has been hailed as a one of a kind innovative program by visiting judges from Reconciliation Australia.
Two judges have made their way to Swan Hill to witness first-hand the group’s role in the community as they deliberate on the outcome of the national Indigenous Governance Awards.
The group’s chair, Professor Mick Dodson visited with fellow judge Dr Simon Longstaff.
Both were overwhelmed with the positive community response to the Marruk Project’s initiatives.
Prof Dodson said there needed to be more programs like it across Australia that worked to bridge racial divides and eradicate discrimination.
“We don’t know of anyone else in Australia who’s doing anything like it,” Prof Dodson said.
“And one that’s led by the Aboriginal community and by the kids — that’s what makes it unique.”
A total of nine judges are travelling across Australia to discover more about the groups and organisations that have been named finalists in the awards. In Swan Hill, they have been treated to a variety of performances and events that showcase what the Marruk Project does.
This week, they watched a performance of the “platypus dance” as well as shooting a film clip that involved people from a diverse number of cultural groups living in the region.
“It’s just wonderful… it brings the town together,” Prof Dodson said.
“We don’t know of anyone else in Australia who’s doing anything like it…”
“We need more things like this. It’s difficult to measure what it achieves: it builds tolerance, it builds an abhorrence for racial discrimination and it fosters that community value for multiculturalism.”
Jeremiah Kirby is a locally born Indigenous man and has been involved in the Marruk Project as a performer and dance teacher. He said it had helped him gain confidence.
“Ever since I can remember my dad said to never be ashamed of who you are, be proud of where you come from so you can accomplish whatever you want,” Mr Kirby said.
“Marruk is like family, they’re all my aunties, uncles, sisters and brothers. We grew up together as one.”
Aunty Linda Ford said she had noticed greater inclusion encouraged in the community thanks to the project.
An awards ceremony will be held in October at which both the Minister for Indigenous Affairs Warren Mundine and Prime Minister Tony Abbott will be present.
The Marruk Project’s producer Angela Frost said it was a rewarding time for those involved in the project, which was the vision of its creator Uncle Bruce Baxter, who began the first of its initiatives in 2009 and passed away in 2011.
The biannual Indigenous Governance Awards began in 2005 and aim to highlight success in Indigenous Australia, including strong leadership, good management, effective partnerships and “brave, creative thinking”.
Among other accolades, all finalists receive a 12 month partnership with a high profile corporate partner, who will provide mentoring and assistance in an area identified by the finalist.
