03/06/2026
👣 What if the Country around us holds stories we’re still learning to see?
As Reconciliation Week comes to a close, we’re reflecting on some powerful moments from across DEM.
We were honoured to host Senior Aboriginal man ‘Uncle Mickey’ O’Brien, a descendant of the Kaurna and Narrunga peoples. His message was clear — reconciliation is a shared journey, bringing First Nations peoples and all Australians together to reflect on our history and move forward with greater understanding.
He reminded us that ‘through time and history, Aboriginal people lost place, not holding a position of power’ — a powerful reflection on the importance of awareness and social consciousness.
Through stories, maps and deep cultural knowledge, Uncle Mickey challenged us to see Country differently, reminding us that ‘we come to know places, not name them’. He revealed a kangaroo embedded in the South Australian landscape, and an emu reflected in the streets of Port Adelaide. Both were major talking points with staff even after his visit concluded, strengthening our connection to Country and reflecting how Indigenous culture was built on observation, listening and doing. Many First Nations icons and leaders used these steps to empower their communities and drive change, such as Monica Lock, Cathy Freeman, David Unaipon and more.
Uncle Mickey encouraged us to be active participants in reconciliation, building knowledge, supporting change in our workplaces, and advocating in meaningful ways at an individual level.
Alongside this, our staff took part in the Reconciliation Australia Morning Tea, contributing to the Tjindu Foundation (👉 https://tjindufoundation.org.au) and its work supporting Aboriginal youth across leadership, education, health and employment, directly supporting Aboriginal communities.
Reconciliation Week may end, but the responsibility continues. It’s up to all of us to go 'All In’ (👉 https://www.reconciliation.org.au/all-in-for-national-reconciliation-week-2026/) and keep building respect, strengthening relationships, and walking forward together.
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