We acknowledge the

 Noongar People

 as the original custodians of this land

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On Sunday 1 October 2006 Ms Marie Taylor, Noongar Elder and Associate Lecturer at the Aboriginal
Cultural Centre, Murdoch University [...read more], unveiled a plaque in the grounds of St Columba's. 

Is was fitting that the parish acknowledge the Noongar people in this way and at this time,
especially following the recent Federal Court land rights decision acknowledging the
Noongar land claim over the metropolitan area of Perth [...read more].

 

The plaque acknowledges the Noongar people as the original custodians of this land. 
It is written in both English and Noongar language.

The plaque is placed in our native garden, near some grass trees (Balga in Noongar language),
which are of great significance to the Noongar people. 

 

The Venerable Trevor Burt, affirmed the placement of the plaque.
"This is a notable day for St Columba's and the Noongar people.
It is an important step of reconciliation, helping us to move forward
together to a new future, and affirming the bonds of unity we share
in our common creation and our common God."

Ms Taylor presented a Message Stick to the Parish.
Message sticks were used as a passport when Noongar people travelled
between camps to visit relatives and for ceremonies. The Message Stick
now signifies permission for us to travel the land together.

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