“It is important that our babies grow up knowing their identity and connection to country.”
That’s the sentiment of Awabakal Ltd CEO Raylene Gordon after the organisation welcomed the next generation of First Nations children into the community at Newcastle City Hall on Tuesday.
Following a COVID-enforced hiatus, more than 200 families across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Raymond Terrace and Maitland are expected to take part in Baby Welcoming Ceremonies this week, which coincide with National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day on 4 August.
Supported by nib foundation, the cultural event includes a traditional outdoor smoking ceremony, followed by a blessing from Awabakal Elders using ochre to traditionally anoint each infant.
Families are also gifted with a printed copy of their baby photo as a memento, which will be proudly displayed at Awabakal’s local medical clinics.
“We have hosted this event since 2015,” Mrs Gordon said.
“So, we’re glad to be back after a couple of years due to COVID-19.
“Our Baby Welcoming Ceremonies relate to the tradition of introducing newborns to the community where the Elders welcome them to the land.
“This sense of identity and belonging was denied for many of our people for so long.
“So, our ceremonies are a reminder to our community that you and your babies belong here – and they are loved.
“We all want to help them grow to be proud, safe and beautiful First Nations people.”
Mrs Gordon admitted the event boasted great cultural significance on many fronts.
“It also delivers Awabakal with the opportunity to connect families with their Aboriginal community infant and maternal healthcare services in the region,” she said.
“We view the ceremonies as a lifelong commitment to providing the best medical and community services we can offer to our people.
“Bringing families together, connecting to culture and fostering relationships between baby, family and healthcare show that we’re here to support each other through life and health.”
Executive officer Amy Tribe said nib foundation was proud to support the event in Newcastle.
“Awabakal has an excellent reputation for delivering infant and maternal healthcare for First Nations youth,” she stated.
“We’re delighted to be a part of the ceremonies this week to bring awareness to the health and social services that Awabakal has to offer, so they can have the greatest impact on the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth and their families.”
