Well what a fantastic day. About 100 people turned up on a glorious sunny morning for the official unveiling of stage 1 of The Gathering Place and to celebrate Australia Day at Greta. The grounds looked amazing and we had just enough wind to keep it cool and allow the flags to fly. The Ceremony was run to military precision by our MC Adrian (Ned) Younger. Uncle Wally Cooper gave the welcome to country and performed a smoking ceremony. Uncle Wally made particular reference to the shared history of both Indigenous and non Indigenous Australians and that the way forward is to acknowledge both. Noeleen Lloyd gave an overview of how the project evolved, from a group of three with big dreams and no money, to a large dedicated, combined committee who are well on the way to achieving their vision. Rod Roscholler from the Rural City of Wangaratta gave a brief address and then Cathy McGowan AO, MP, Federal Member for Indi unveiled the plaque and unfurled the flag. Ms McGowan spoke about communities and their can do attitude. She also told us she would love to come back and unveil stage 2 - well keep her to that! Uncle Wally unfurled the Indigenous flag. With arousing edition of our anthem ringing out across Greta there really was no better place to be. Joan Ellis thanked our guests with some gifts (all local produce) and the Ceremony drew to a close. Once the official part of the day was over it was inside our 99 year old Hall for morning tea ( a fantastic spread as always) and a look at the displays on the project construction, the plans for Stage 2 & 3 and a display of the districts WW1 history. Again a big thanks to everyone who came along - it made all the hard work worth it and we would love to have your feedback - both postive and room for improvement .There is still much to do for the next stages. Importantly - a big shout out to all the members of the combined committee who ran the show like the team of professionals they are. You are all magnificent. Put October 18 in your diaries as this is when we plan to unveil the memorial plaque, wall and honour boards
Posted on: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 04:18:19 +0000
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