Reconciliation Week 2026 events
Council is inviting the community to come together for two free events to mark National Reconciliation Week 2026, celebrating culture, connection and a shared commitment to reconciliation.
Hosted on both Bunurong and Wurundjeri Country, the events will reflect the 2026 National Reconciliation Week theme, ‘All In’, a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every single day.
The first event, held on Bunurong Country, will take place on Thursday 28 May from 12.30pm to 2pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham. The community is invited to enjoy a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, performances by the All Together Choir and local school students and a range of family-friendly activities.
During Reconciliation Week, the Cardinia Cultural Centre will also host several exhibitions and artworks that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and stories including a concert by Winter Sets: Charlie Needs Braces – Cardinia Cultural Centre with free MobTix and a new mural by Sam Richards.
The second event, held on Wurundjeri Country, will be held on Monday 1 June from 12.30pm to 2pm at the Hills Hub in Emerald. This event will also feature a Welcome to Country, community performances and family-friendly activities.
The Hills Hub will showcase a photographic exhibition by local First Nations artist Benny Clarke, showcasing portraits of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples celebrating their strength, diversity and stories.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Brett Owen said the events reflect Council’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and meaningful action.
“National Reconciliation Week is an opportunity for our community to come together, listen, learn and be part of the reconciliation journey,” Mayor Owen said.
“The ‘All In’ theme reminds us that reconciliation is something we must actively commit to every day. These events are about showing up, engaging with culture and understanding our shared responsibility to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
Mayor Owen said the celebrations also align with Council’s recently adopted Reconciliation Action Plan, which sets out clear commitments to building respectful relationships, strengthening understanding and creating meaningful opportunities for First Nations peoples across the shire.
“Our Reconciliation Action Plan is about turning intention into action,” he said.
“These events are one way we are bringing our RAP to life, through inviting our whole community to be part of the cultural celebration and connection.”
Both events are free and open to the community.
For more information, contact Council on 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ccc