To recognise National Reconciliation Week (NRW), Calisthenics Victoria staff attended the Celebrating Country and Culture: Reconciliation Week Opening event hostedby Monash City council on the first day of NRW. 

The event provided a meaningful opportunity to listen, learn and reflect. Aboriginal people shared stories and traditional practices that have been passed down through generations, while staff also took part in creative and cultural activities, including weaving and dancing. 

Staff left the event with a deeper understanding of First Nations peoples, histories and cultures, and why reconciliation is an important step in walking forward together. 

National Reconciliation Week, held annually from 27 May to 3 June, is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, while considering how each of us can contribute to reconciliation in meaningful ways. The week is framed by two significant dates in Australia’s history - the 1967 Referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.  

Reconciliation is not a single event or initiative. It is an ongoing commitment to listening, learning, acknowledging truth, building relationships and creating culturally safe and inclusive spaces.  

At Calisthenics Victoria, we are proud to have 164 First Nationsmembers participating across 63 of our affiliated clubs and programs. Their presence, stories and connection to community strengthen our sport and remind us of the importance of creating environments where everyone feels respected, represented and valued. 

Calisthenics Victoria recently launched its first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), which is an important step in ensuring calisthenics is a sport and community that welcomes, respects and learns from First Nations peoples. Our Reflect RAP demonstrates our commitment to listening, learning and building meaningful relationships and opportunities across our community.