The third We-Akon Dilinja (mourning reflection) ceremony was attended by an estimated crowd of 500 people at Alfred Square on Australia Day.

The moving ceremony was also livestreamed for those unable to attend the St Kilda ceremony.

Presented by the Boonwurrung Land and Sea Council (BLSC), and supported by our Council and the National Australia Day Council, this year’s theme was Healing through Remembrance, Reflection and Recognition.

As dawn broke, Kiernan Ironfield’s skilful didgeridoo playing opened the proceedings. The culture and history of the Boonwurrung people was then conveyed through readings and music with a smoking ceremony concluding the inclusive event.

N’arweet Jason Briggs said: “This ceremony is an important step in acknowledging our shared history with other Australians who’ve come to our Country.”

To view the ceremony, click here 

2022 WE-AKON DILINJA PROGRAM

MC – Bo Svoronos

Didgeridoo player – Kiernan Ironfield

Boonwurrung Welcome Song – James Henry (written by James Henry & Jarra Steel)

Welcome to Country and Introduction – Parbinata Dr Carolyn Briggs AM

N’arweet Jason Briggs

Boonwurrung song – “Long Time Living Here” – Shauntai Batzke (written by Deborah Cheetham AO, Parbinata Carolyn Briggs, Jarra Steel & Aunty Fay Stewart Muir)

1st reading – Dick Gross

Shofar with Jewish prayer – Rabbi Gabi Kaltmann

Wiradjuri song – “Babirra Nyiwarri Gariya Giran” – Shauntai Batzke (written by Shauntai Batzke)

2nd reading – Cr Marcus Pearl, City of Port Phillip Mayor

Tribute to past Boonwurrung Elders – Parbinata Carolyn Briggs and Michael Julian

Boonwurrung song – Balayang (written by Marbee Williams) & Yuwaalaraay song – Murrgumurrgu (written by James Henry) – James Henry (lead vocals) accompanied by Michael Julian (percussion) & Caerwen Martin (cello)

Smoking Ceremony – David Tournier