Walking on Country Deepens Understanding and Connection
On Saturday 28 March, members of Uniting Churches from across Sydney and the Hunter gathered at the Murrook Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Williamtown.
On Saturday 28 March, members of Uniting Churches from across Sydney and the Hunter gathered at the Murrook Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Williamtown for a meaningful day of learning, reflection and connection through a Walking on Country experience.
Hosted by Murrook Aboriginal Cultural Centre, the day invited participants to listen, learn and engage more deeply with Aboriginal culture, history and spirituality through firsthand experiences guided by Worimi knowledge holders.
The gathering began with a Welcome to Country led by Elder John Ridgeway, a Worimi man who has lived on his ancestral land his entire life. Uncle John shared stories of his people and their enduring connection to country, explaining the traditional boundaries of Worimi land and the significance of place in Aboriginal law and culture. He also performed a song he composed, “I’m a Worimi Boy,” offering participants a moving expression of identity, belonging and cultural pride.
Following the welcome, the group moved outdoors to participate in a traditional smoking ceremony led by cultural guide Peter. Using eucalypt and lemon tea tree leaves, the ceremony served as a cleansing ritual, acknowledging the ancestors and signalling that visitors came in peace and respect. Participants were invited to walk through the smoke, symbolically preparing themselves to be present on country in a spirit of openness and learning.
The day continued with a hands-on weaving workshop, where participants learned basic weaving techniques and created their own bracelets. The activity provided not only a practical skill but also insight into the cultural significance of weaving as a traditional practice passed down through generations. Many participants reflected on the patience, care and storytelling embedded within the craft.
The final session involved walking on country, exploring the landscape while learning about native plants and their traditional uses. Participants discovered how various plants have long been used for food, medicine and everyday living. Tea tree varieties featured prominently, with guides explaining their healing properties as well as their role in cooking and cultural practices.
A highlight for many was visiting native bee hives and learning about Indigenous honey production. Participants were fascinated to discover that native bees produce a high-grade honey comparable to manuka honey, valued for its strong antiseptic and healing properties.
Throughout the day, participants expressed deep appreciation for the experience, describing it as “awesome” and “amazing,” and noting how much they valued the opportunity to learn directly from Aboriginal educators on country itself.
Nathan Tyson, Head of First Peoples Strategy and Engagement, said the enthusiasm shown by participants was encouraging.
“It is so wonderful to see members of the church so enthusiastically engaged in learning about country and culture,” Mr Tyson said. “The more we know and understand about Aboriginal peoples’ connection to country, the more we can understand the importance of law and culture. This learning contributes to growing relationships and helps progress towards healing and reconciliation.”
The Walking on Country program forms part of ongoing efforts within the Synod of NSW and ACT to deepen understanding, strengthen relationships with First Peoples, and foster reconciliation through listening and shared learning experiences.
Participants left with new knowledge, practical skills and a deeper appreciation of the spiritual and cultural significance of country — recognising that reconciliation is not only a concept but a journey shaped by encounter, respect and relationship.
How Can You Get Involved
The next Walking on Country event will be held at Yarramundi in Western Sydney on Saturday 13 June 2026.
You can now register for this event here.
