Last week, I attended the Ngarrama, a much-loved community gathering on Awabakal and Worimi country in Newcastle, now in its fifth year. I want to acknowledge just how important this event has become in Newcastle's calendar of events. Through truth-telling performances, dance and song, the evening honours the past, the present and the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as providing a powerful opportunity to reflect on the lives and ongoing contributions of First Nations people in Mooloobinba/Newcastle. It was powerful to see so many locals coming out—families, neighbours, workmates, elders and so many young people, all sharing in storytelling, music, art and truth-telling. Events like Ngarrama matter because they create space to listen, to learn and to walk forward together. They deepen our understanding of the world's oldest continuing culture and strengthen the respect that sits at the heart of our community.

I want to thank the organisers— Awabakal, Wollotuka Institute and the University of Newcastle, in particular—the artists, the performers, the volunteers and the elders who made this event such a success. Thank you as well to all the partners, and I'm especially pleased to acknowledge the support of the Australian government this year. Ngarrama reminds us that reconciliation isn't a moment; it's a shared journey. In Newcastle, we are committed to walking that path together.