We Walk the River with a kind and generous Elder

Reconciliation Victoria led by First Peoples Cultural Council member, Uncle Jim Berg, opened the Walk the River exhibition at the Blak Dot Gallery on June 2.

Senior Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Elder, Aunty Di Kerr opened proceedings with a warm Welcome to Country, speaking of her love and respect for renowned Elder, Uncle Jim Berg. This set the tone for a magical evening.

Uncle Shane Charles, Reconciliation Victoria’s Co-Chair spoke of the importance of valuing culture and voices of great Aboriginal leaders like Uncle Jim, especially during this time of hope and political change.

A powerful and moving didge performance followed by Uncle Shane and his nephew, artist and didge player Dylan Charles.

Wurundjeri-Willam Leader and Traditional Custodian, Mandy Nicholson, and daughters, the Djirri Djirri dancers, filled the space with language and dance reverberating and warming the spirits.

The fires at Blak Dot Gallery burned bright, inviting guests to warm their hands, connect and find comfort in conversation. Every need and detail met by the wonderful Gallery Director, Kimba Thompson, and food lovingly prepared and shared by PAWA catering.

Uncle Jim, accompanied by soul mate, Kylie, friends, and family – showed us that taking time to connect with country, also connects us to each other in a most powerful way.

Walk the River exhibition runs through to 19 June at Blak Dot Gallery.