Cultural Healing Day in Dubbo: Reflect, Respect, and Connect with Community

Adarsh Dutt
January 30, 2026

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Cultural Healing Day!

When the forecast for Dubbo hit a scorching 45°C yesterday, we knew the “Reflect. Respect. Connect.” theme was about to be put to the test. With the extreme heatwave making an outdoor event impossible, the Oyster Tribe Aboriginal Corporation (OTAC) team jumped into action.

We moved the entire event indoors to the Dubbo Rugby Club, and while the space was cool, the spirit of the day was larger than ever.

A Team Effort from 8:00 AM

The day started with an incredible display of team spirit. Scotty and James were on the tools early, installing vinyl banners and transforming the hall into a vibrant cultural hub. By the time the doors opened for exhibitors at 9:00 AM, the atmosphere was already high-energy.

We were joined by Regional Event Medics Neil Fuller and his team to keep everyone safe in the heat, while Katie and Kamiehsa managed the arrival of the community meal. Kaliah was stationed at our art station, guiding the kids through colouring and paintings, ensuring our youngest guests had a creative space to express themselves.

Art, Culture, and Connection

The hall was a kaleidoscope of talent. Talbragar Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation (TWAC) and Blackets Creations displayed stunning works, from indigenous-designed t-shirts and earrings to handmade boomerangs.

It wasn’t just a display; it was a classroom. Kids spent the day at stations learning to paint boomerangs and canvases, weaving, and colouring, while the Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council stall was a hit with plenty of resources for the guests.

Powerful Performances & Moving Stories

Our MC for the day, Shane Riley, set the tone with live music before Aunty Pam Wells opened the event with a beautiful Welcome to Country.

Sheena Olsen, Director of Oyster Tribe, delivered a moving speech, acknowledging the day’s complex history for Aboriginal people while encouraging the wider community to share a respectful space for cultural healing, reflection, and connection.

The performances that followed were breathtaking:

Talbragar Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation TWAC Dancers and The Orana Residents of Indian Sub-Continental Heritage Oriscon Shared powerful dances, explaining the deep meaning behind every movement.
Nivedhya Suresh (Bharathanatyam): A mesmerising “Varnam” performance of classical Indian dance.
Angelina & Brianna (Sri Lankan): The graceful “Peacock Dance” in traditional fusion style.
Pavneet & Eknoor Kaur (Bhangra/Giddha): A lively showcase of Punjabi folk tradition.
Nepali Dance Group: A beautiful display of culture and peace from the Newa community.

A true highlight was Aunty Doris Shillingsworth who shared a captivating story about her ancestors’ the rain makers and their ability to “dance for rain.” The entire room fell into a respectful silence as she spoke—a moment of pure cultural connection.

Food, Smiles, and a Special Visit

As the day continued, we shared a community meal. Every performer was presented with Lindt Australia chocolates as a thank you for their talent.

We were even joined by MP Stephen Lawrence, who was pleased to see such a successful and well-attended gathering.

A Heartfelt Thank You

I might have missed out on the Henna line because I was busy coordinating, but seeing the community come together made every bit of hard work worth it.

A massive thank you to Ebony, Aunty Pam, and Gargi for their tireless efforts in helping us arrange this. Despite the scorcher outside, yesterday was proof of the strength found in unity and shared culture.

If you’d like to learn more about upcoming events, cultural initiatives, or how to get involved with the Oyster Tribe Aboriginal Corporation, reach out to us today. Together, we can continue to reflect, respect, and strengthen our community through shared culture and connection.

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Article written by:

Adarsh Dutt

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