Glenorchy City Council launched its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) at the Moonah Arts Centre yesterday.
Glenorchy Mayor Bec Thomas said the development of the RAP will benefit all members of the community in contributing to the way council works and delivers services.
“Council has a long and proud history of working with the Aboriginal community, first demonstrated by our Commitment to Aboriginal Australians statement developed in 1997. With the launch of the RAP we renew and deepen our dedication to reconciliation.
“As a council, we are committed to going on this journey with our community. This is why the RAP includes an action plan, detailing the specific actions council commits to undertake, under the categories of relationships, respect, opportunities, and governance.”
A community engagement process was undertaken in the development of the RAP, which included conversations with local Aboriginal groups, Elected Members, council staff and the broader community.
The RAP has been endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, who also guided council in the development of the Plan.
“We extend our thanks to all the Aboriginal groups who have walked this path with us, including local elders, the Karadi Aboriginal Corporation, First Tasmanians Aboriginal Corporation, Leprena and the Glenorchy Reconciliation Group,” Mayor Thomas said.
“I would also like to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of council’s project team and Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group.”
The launch included the unveiling of artwork produced by prestigious local Aboriginal artist Janice Ross, who grew up in Rosetta and is a strong and proud Tasmanian Aboriginal saltwater sister. The artwork is featured throughout the RAP document.
