Deep listening and reflection at Pilk Purriyn
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners invite Surf Coast Shire community members and visitors to join them in a profound experience of deep listening at the Pilk Purriyn sunrise event on 26 January.
Now in its fourth year, the special gathering offers meaningful opportunity for people to connect with Country and Culture.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation will continue to lead the event, upholding Cultural responsibilities and protocols, and looks forward to collaborating on proceedings with the broader First Nations community living on Wadawurrung Country.
Council is proud to again be playing a supporting role.
The event will include Welcome to Country, Smoking and dance ceremonies as well as singing by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners and The Howell Sisters.
Truth-telling is at its heart, helping to deepen awareness of the enduring grief, loss, and harm caused by colonisation.
On Warri Dja, Sea Country
The event will start at 5.30am before the new day dawns on Warri Dja – Sea Country – at Cosy Corner in Torquay.
From the first event held in 2023, crowds have been drawn to the truth-telling connection, and quiet contemplation of Pilk Purriyn. Last year’s event saw thousands of allies and the First Nations community gather in a tangible expression of their support for reconciliation and a shared future together.
The event has cemented its role in the collective hearts of the Surf Coast community. People of all ages and backgrounds are invited to come together in quiet, compassionate reflection.
Pilk Purriyn means sunrise in the language of Wadawurrung People, the Traditional Owners and First People of the land where the event takes place. It symbolises the dawning of a new era of understanding and healing between all people in the community.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, WTOAC, is again presenting Pilk Purriyn with the support of Council and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.
Find more information about the free event and register
Organisers are encouraging people to register via the above webpage to help with gauging of numbers and enable sharing of event updates.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owner and WTOAC Co-CEO Sarah Eccles says: “January 26 is a difficult day for many in our Mob, but Pilk Purriyn is changing that. Each year more people join us on Warri Dja, Coastal Country, at sunrise to listen, reflect and walk together towards healing.
“This gathering counters what January 26 has long represented, and creates space for real healing and reconciliation. Seeing the community embrace this new way of recognising the day gives us hope for the future.
“Deep appreciation to Surf Coast Shire Council and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority for supporting us since this event was first held in 2023 – Nyatne (thank you).”