Members of the First Nations community, local Councillors, and stakeholders of the Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Hub and Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery recently gathered to participate in a traditional Smoking Ceremony. This sacred ritual was held at the construction sites of the new and refurbished buildings and extended to the Pental Island Bridge, preparing the land for its role in future cultural tourism initiatives.
The Smoking Ceremony, an important tradition of the First Nations people, was performed to cleanse and prepare the land as a safe and welcoming space, promoting unity and respect for all who visit.
Led by First Nations Elder Aunty Debra Chaplin, she acknowledged Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi Country, where ancestors have been the custodians, performers of age-old celebrations, initiations, births, storytelling, and renewals.
In her heartfelt address, Aunty Debra highlighted the living culture and the unique role we all play in caring for our beautiful country. She paid tribute to her ancestors in the Dreamtime.
"Because today, we stand in their footprints. Those footprints have supported and guided us as we walk on this land," she said.
Aunty Debra united everyone, urging all present at the ceremony to continue to move forward together.
"We should show respect to our fellow countrymen and women who are present here today. You are recognised and acknowledged. So, treat the earth and all living things with respect. Remain close to your own spirit. And respect our culture and the law of the land," Aunty Debra said.
Swan Hill Rural City Council's Aboriginal Community Development Officer, Jacinta Chaplin, shared her gratitude and excitement about the ceremony.
"It's truly special to see the Swan Hill Art Gallery, Hub, and Pental Island Bridge sites smoked as part of this ancient tradition. It's a meaningful step in honoring our connection to Country and creating spaces that are welcoming and safe for everyone," Ms Chaplin said.
Ms Chaplin expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts behind the initiative and highlighted symbolic items present at the ceremony
"I want to thank the First Nations Advisory Committee for their invaluable contributions. Their guidance has been instrumental in bringing these projects to life in a way that reflects unity and respect for culture.
"Items present at the ceremony represent the shared journey of our community—like the possum skin marked during Shared Connections Day, the didgeridoo decorated by local men, the gifts from the Torres Strait Islander community, and the clap sticks handcrafted by Impaja to represent our local mobs. Together, they tell a powerful story of collaboration and connection," Ms Chaplin added.
"This ceremony cleanses the land, bringing in positive energy, creating good opportunities for the entire community. It's about preparing the spaces for new beginnings, guided by respect for culture and the spirit of the land," she concluded.
