Several Tamworth Aboriginal organisations are uniting to host a day of healing, culture, and community connections in response to some devastating recent losses in the Tamworth Indigenous community.
Meaningful Connections will be held this Sunday, May, from 11AM to 5PM at Bicentennial Park, with activities including corroboree, and a yarning circle and, of course, kids’ activities, just ahead of Reconciliation Week.
Gomeroi Poet Rob Waters will lead the community through a special spoken-word healing activity.
There will also be a dedicated Elders tent, food, sports games and “so much more”.
The event is open to all, and welcomes non-First Nations people, and are encouraging other local organisations who want to join in on the connection and healing to participate, or simply attend.
The organisers behind the event include Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service, Birrelee Multifuncitonal Aboriginal Child care Service, and Burrun Dalai, and many others.
The day aims to promote culture as well as healing, with TAMS Chair Cathy Trindall saying “This day is more than just coming together.”
“It’s about acknowledging our shared grief – healing happens in community.”
“We want to honour those we’ve lost and support each other through meaningful connection, culture, and care.”
Rachel Phillips, Director of Birrelee MACS Childcare Centre, emphasised the importance of creating safe and nurturing spaces for children and families.
“Our little ones have also felt the ripple effects of recent losse,” Phillips said.
“Through play, art, and storytelling, we’re helping them feel safe, seen, and supported – it’s about healing together, across generations.”
The event offers a welcome opportunity to connect for the New England Indigenous community after the Armidale Reconciliation Bridge Walk was postponed until 2026 due to construction.
For more information or to get involved, contact Brooke Maisey at TAMS on 02 6760 2500, or email brookem@tams.org.au.
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