Coming Together on Wiradjuri Country
Oyster Tribe proudly launched our Aboriginal Languages Trust Revival Program, Listening to the Voices of Our Ancestors, here on Wiradjuri Country at our Dubbo office.
The day began with a buzz of excitement as our local coordinator Tara Blackhall, along with a team of dedicated volunteers and facilitators, prepared the space to welcome participants. The room was set up to hold around 20 people comfortably, creating a warm and inclusive environment where everyone felt they belonged.
Stories and Values from Elder Iris Blackhall
We were deeply honoured to welcome Elder Iris Blackhall, who arrived with great enthusiasm, eager to share her stories. Iris spoke with strength and clarity about the three values that have always guided her life:
- Culture — the foundation connecting us to Country, ancestors, and identity.
- Education — the lifelong responsibility to learn, grow, and pass knowledge forward.
- Family — the kinship bonds that provide belonging, support, and resilience.
She also spoke about an Aboriginal artifact from her past, explaining its cultural significance and reflecting on how such items carry meaning beyond their physical form. Iris also talked about her younger years, when painting was a way for her to connect with her identity — a reminder that art has long been woven into Aboriginal life as a form of storytelling and self-expression.
Want to hear more from Elder Iris herself? Watch the video here, where she shares her stories, values, and reflections in her own words.
Passing Knowledge Across Generations
This storytelling event was the first of several planned gatherings under the ALT Revival Program. Each gathering is designed not only to record and celebrate cultural knowledge, but also to create spaces where that knowledge can be passed on directly from Elders to the younger generations. This continuity is at the heart of our work — ensuring that what is shared today can guide, inspire, and strengthen tomorrow.
Food, Connection, and Community Spirit
The atmosphere throughout the day was one of warmth and connection, leaving everyone with a sense of contentment. And, of course, no gathering would be complete without food. Sharing fruit platters, juice, and plenty of pizza gave participants the chance to sit together informally, exchange stories of their own, and enjoy the simple act of coming together as a community.
Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future
As we reflected on the day, one message stood out clearly: the importance of creating spaces where Elders feel valued and heard, and where young people feel safe to listen, learn, and ask questions. These storytelling sessions are not just about preserving knowledge; they are about celebrating resilience, strengthening identity, and building intergenerational respect.
We thank our Elders for their generosity, our volunteers for their tireless support, and our community for showing up in such strong spirit.
This program was made possible through a meaningful collaboration between Oyster Tribe and the Oyster Care Foundation, working together to preserve culture and empower the next generation.
This project is supported by the NSW Government through the Aboriginal Languages Trust.
Be Part of Our Journey
The Listening to the Voices of Our Ancestors program is only the beginning. We invite you to walk alongside us in celebrating and preserving Wiradjuri culture. Join future storytelling gatherings, support our Elders, and share the importance of keeping culture strong within your own circles.
To learn more about upcoming events or find out how you can support Aboriginal language revival initiatives, visit our program site. Together, we can ensure the voices of our ancestors continue to guide and inspire generations to come.
