Hundreds of students from 27 schools will walk with the community as part of Shellharbour City’s annual Reconciliation Flag Walk on Monday 31 May.

Aboriginal Elders, civic leaders and schoolchildren will each play a part in the special flag exchange to mark the event.

The walk will begin at 10am outside the PCYC Lake Illawarra and travel along Reddall Parade for 1km to Pelican Reserve Playground, adjacent to Picnic Island.

A civic ceremony will be held from 10.30am. Students will then be encouraged to have a yarn with an Elder over lunch.

This year’s theme ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action’ urges the reconciliation movement towards more brave and impactful action.

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said everyone had a role to play in reconciliation.

“Working towards a reconciled community and nation involves speaking up, asking difficult questions and taking action,” Cr Saliba said.

“Our city’s Aboriginal history extends for thousands of years. Recognising, honouring and protecting the history and Aboriginal culture of Shellharbour is an integral part of strengthening connection to the place we call home, and to one another.

"I encourage everyone to join us in our walk and ceremony, as well as take time to learn and reflect on what we can do in the journey to reconciliation.”

To learn more about Reconciliation Week and how you can get involved visit https://www.reconciliation.org.au/

Media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008