Every year, communities across the country walk in Michael Long’s footsteps, and this week it was Brimbank’s turn!
Our community came together on 2 September at Sunvale Community Park in Sunshine to participate in the ‘Little Long Walk’ hosted by Brimbank City Council.
The Little Long Walk was inspired by Michael Long’s 650-kilometre powerful walk to Canberra in 2004, which raised awareness and advocated for the rights and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The event opened with a Welcome to Country conducted by Thane Garvey, a Wurundjeri man. Council’s First Nations Lead, Uncle Shane Charles, also welcomed the community and Jack Peris from The Long Walk Foundation shared a short talk. A tasty BBQ lunch was provided by Sunshine Lions Club.
Children, including 2–5-year-olds from Muyan Early Learning Victoria in Sunshine, had plenty of fun exploring culture and learning through hands-on activities as part of the Marngrook program.
They painted colourful banners, played traditional games and listened to stories. They also explored First Nations tools and artefacts.
It was a welcoming and memorable cultural experience for everyone.
The event ended with a community walk around the park, on what was a perfect Spring day in Sunshine, bringing everyone together to celebrate culture, community and connection.
