Pilk Purriyn Traditional Owner truth-telling story to continue

Published on 17 December 2024

Wadawurrung Traditional Owners will welcome Surf Coast Shire community and visitors to Country for a third deep listening event accompanying Pilk Purriyn – sunrise – in Torquay on 26 January 2025.

Their historic truth-telling story will continue with first-time testimonies from members of one of seven Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Family Lines, seeking to deepen understanding of the deep sadness, loss and hurt brought by colonisation.

This year will include stories from Wadawurrung Ngarrweet (Senior Male Elder) Uncle Mel and his family.

The event will start at 5.30am before the new day dawns on Warri Dja – Sea Country – at Cosy Corner in Torquay.

People of all ages, genders, races, religions and backgrounds are welcome to attend in quiet, compassionate reflection.

The event will include traditional Welcome to Country, Smoking and Dance ceremonies, but the emphasis is on deep listening.

About 2500 people attended Pilk Purriyn in 2024, and 2000 people in 2023.

Comments from 2024 patrons included:

“It was beautiful. It felt really powerful and heartwarming seeing so many people coming together.”

“A highly significant event for truth telling in a spiritual place.”

“Very moved.”

“Everything about the event was wonderful – the venue, participants, agenda, words, stories, set-up.”

“Amazing event, very thought provoking and inclusive, even shed a tear at the storytelling, will definitely come again.”

Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation is again presenting Pilk Purriyn with the support of Surf Coast Shire Council and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks.

Organisers are encouraging people to register for the free 2025 event via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PilkPurriyn to help gauge number and enable sharing of updates.

Wadawurrung Ngarrweet (Senor Male Elder) Uncle Melville Robinson: “We, the people of Wadawurrung Country, invite the community to join us at Pilk Purriyn, to deeply listen to our Truth-Telling and understand the lasting impacts colonisation has had on Wadawurrung and all First Nations people.”

“Wadawurrung Culture and Connection to Country extends back into the past, so far back that it is almost incomprehensible. We ask you to koling wada ngitj – walk forward together – with us.”

Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Mike Bodsworth: “Council Acknowledges that 26 January is a day steeped in sorrow for many First Nations people, and proudly supports Wadawurrung Traditional Owners’ staging of their third Pilk Purriyn truth-telling event.

“Through the sharing of hearts, truths and ceremony they give us a profound opportunity to grow our understanding of their culture and the loss and hurt inflicted since colonisation. We encourage community members and visitors to attend and take it all in.

“The breaking light of Pilk Purriyn – sunrise and a new day – and the ceaseless wash of the waves provide an evocative backdrop for reflection and sense of connection with people who have known and cared for Warri Dja – Sea Country – for millennia.”

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Chief Executive Officer Jodie Sizer: “This is an opportunity for the community to come together for deep listening, reflection, healing, and truth-telling.  

“Listening to Wadawurrung Traditional Owners generously share their wisdom and experiences with the community is a step towards recognition and Reconciliation for our region.  

“In supporting this event, we reaffirm our commitment to amplifying the voices, values, rights, and interests of all Rights Holders throughout the Great Ocean Road region." 

Organisers are committed to making Pilk Purriyn as accessible as possible, while respecting the cultural significance and natural beauty of the outdoor site.

Anyone who may find the terrain or lighting difficult is advised to arrive early with a support person if required.

People with additional access or support needs are encouraged to contact organisers directly at pilk-purriyn@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.

People can find more information, including event FAQs via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PilkPurriyn.

Picture caption: L-R Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Mike Bodsworth, Wadawurrung Ngarrweet Uncle Mel, Wadawurrung Elder Aunty Mary.