The 2022 Aunty Betty Memorial Reconciliation Walk was held 31st May at Point Park Mooloolaba. Traditional Custodian Aunty Bridgette Chilli welcomed us to her Country and performed a smoking ceremony. She shared the historical and cultural knowledge during a short walk. The event was well attended by the community and a number of school groups.
The Walk was proudly sponsored by Uniting Care, North Coast Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health, Suncare, Life Without Barriers and Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service.
History of the Aunty Betty Memorial Reconciliation Walk
The annual coastal walk is one of SCRGI’s most important events. The Aunty Betty Memorial Reconciliation Walk began in 2015 as the SCRGI Recognise Coastal Walk. In 2017 the name changed to the Reconciliation Walk. SCRGI patron Aunty Betty McMahon was an active member of the SCRGI committee who planned and organised the walks. After the passing of Aunty Betty in 2019, approval was granted from the McMahon family to change the name of the Walk to the Aunty Betty Memorial Reconciliation Walk.
A different walk location each year is chosen to recognise Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi’s cultural heritage significance. The location and route is chosen to be accessible to all abilities and the walk has attracted up to 300 participants.
A range of sponsors have supported the Walk, including the Sunshine Coast Council, Reconciliation Australia, Suncare Community Services, Life Without Barriers, Uniting Care, Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service, and North Coast Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health.