Policy sets protocol for Welcome to Country address at Council events
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Gladstone Regional Council has set the framework for Welcome to Country official protocol at Council coordinated or facilitated events within the Gladstone Region.
Council endorsed an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocol – Events Policy at its general meeting yesterday.
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said the policy provided guidance for a consistent approach to undertaking Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of People and Country addresses at Council run events.
“This policy recognises the unique position of Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islanders in Australian culture and history as the original Custodians of the land,” Councillor Burnett said.
“It is important that this unique position is recognised and incorporated as part of official protocol at events to enable the wider community to share in this culture and heritage.
“The policy will further provide guidance to involving and engaging Aboriginal Elders and other indigenous cultural groups or representatives in events held within the Gladstone Region in line with requirements of the Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA).”
A register of Expression of Interest has also been developed and will be maintained by Council with details available to the public.
This register will identify representatives, performers, singers, artists and musicians who may be engaged for particular events within the Gladstone Region.