'All In': let's learn, listen and unite
Join in community events during National Reconciliation Week
Discover the secret powers of bush herbs and spices, take a walk through time, and cheer on the Lightning ... it’s time to acknowledge and explore more about First Nations culture.
Proudly supported by Sunshine Coast Council, National Reconciliation Week will run from May 27 to June 3, with a range of activities planned across the region.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli said National Reconciliation Week extended a warm invitation to our whole community to come together and support First Nations-led events and businesses, and to be part of a Sunshine Coast that was respectful, connected and proud of the world’s oldest living cultures.
“This is a time for all of us to learn more about our histories, cultures and achievements, and to consider how each of us can contribute to unity,’’ Mayor Natoli said.
“This year’s theme, “All In”, is a clear reminder reconciliation is a shared journey.
“It takes everyday choices, relationships and action from everyone.’’
What’s on during National Reconciliation Week
A wide range of community events and activities are happening across our region throughout National Reconciliation Week and beyond. Highlights include:
Aunty Betty Memorial Walk (Free)
Wednesday, May 27, 10am–2pm | Dicky Beach Park
A much-loved annual walk honouring Aunty Betty McMahon that brings community together to walk on Country in a spirit of respect and connection.
Manngoor Dja Youth Day (Free)
Saturday, May 30, 10am–2pm | Jack Morgan Park, 30 Perry St, Coolum Beach
A youth celebration designed for connection, pride and community strength, featuring more than 20 community stalls, free food and snacks, free 715 Health Checks and live local artists, music and traditional dances.
Sunshine Coast Lightning First Nations Round
Saturday, May 30, 3.30pm onwards | UniSC Arena, 32 Olympic Way, Sippy Downs
Cheer on Sunshine Coast Lightning as they take on the GIANTS during the First Nations Round, celebrating culture and heritage through match-day activations and local performances.
GATHAA One Mob Reconciliation Market (Free)
Saturday, 13 June, 9am–1pm | Hope Dreaming Centre, 7 Caloundra Rd, Caloundra West
The market features First Nations-led stalls, live music, cultural dance, bushfood, workshops and family-friendly activities, while giving locals an easy way to support First Nations businesses.
Bush tucker sensory stations and workshops (Free)
Various dates and locations | Sunshine Coast Libraries
Drop in to explore native plants and learn about traditional herbs and spices used by First Nations peoples for thousands of years, with practical growing tips and everyday cooking ideas.
To explore the full program, visit the What’s On: National Reconciliation Week guide.
How to be “All In” for reconciliation
Everyone has a role to play during National Reconciliation Week and beyond. You can:
- Attend a local event and bring a friend, your family, your neighbours or your work team.
- Start a conversation about reconciliation and listen to First Nations voices and perspectives.
- Learn local First Nations history and connect with the Country you live on.
- Support First Nations businesses, artists and organisations in practical ways.
For National Reconciliation Week information, visit the Council website.
Council’s commitment to reconciliation
The Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan 2025–2028 sets out Council’s practical, measurable actions to embed reconciliation into business-as-usual and strengthen partnerships with Traditional Custodians and the broader First Nations community.
The plan’s vision is for a Sunshine Coast where First Nations peoples, cultures and histories are embraced as a core part of our regional identity, creating an inclusive, prosperous and connected community where we all thrive together.
Chief Executive Officer John Baker, Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan Champion, said Council was committed to working in genuine partnership to ensure First Nations voices, knowledge and leadership help shape the region’s future.
“Reconciliation grows through relationships and shared responsibility,” Mr Baker said.
“When you attend an event, have a conversation, support a First Nations business or learn more about the Country you live on, you’re helping build a stronger, more connected Sunshine Coast.
“I encourage everyone to be All In during National Reconciliation Week and keep that commitment going every day.”
Understanding National Reconciliation Week
The dates of National Reconciliation Week matter because they mark two turning points in Australia’s shared story.
May 27 commemorates the 1967 referendum, when more than 90 per cent of Australians voted “yes” to change the Constitution so the Australian Government could make laws for First Nations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) peoples and recognise them in the national census.
June 3 is Mabo Day, recognising the High Court’s 1992 decision that overturned the legal fiction of terra nullius and affirmed that native title can exist, acknowledging First Nations peoples’ enduring connection to Country.
National Reconciliation Week spans these two historic moments, recognising the importance of truth telling about our past and the work still needed to build a fairer future.
To explore more National Reconciliation Week resources, go to the Libraries website.
Opportunities to come together as a community
A highlight on the National Reconciliation Week calendar is the GATHAA One Mob Reconciliation Market at the Hope Dreaming Centre on Saturday, June 13, bringing First Nations groups and the wider community together for a welcoming morning of yarning, learning and connection on Country.
GATHAA Event Manager Carissa Coorey said the market was designed to create genuine connection through shared experiences.
“National Reconciliation Week is an important opportunity for us to bring people together through culture, conversation, food, music and community,” Ms Coorey said.
“Our GATHAA One Mob Reconciliation Market is a space where all people are welcome to come together, support Blak business, share knowledge and build genuine connections between First Nations people and the broader community.
“We hope people leave feeling more connected to First Nations community, culture and local businesses, while experiencing the warmth and strength that comes from gathering together.
“For us, reconciliation is about walking forward together with respect, honesty and understanding – creating opportunities for First Nations people to lead, share culture and be supported by the wider community in meaningful and practical ways.”
Looking ahead: NAIDOC Week
Council also encourages the community to plan for NAIDOC Week, which runs July 5 to 12, marking a time of celebration for First Nations communities.
The national theme ‘50 Years of Deadly’ is a tribute to the Elders, organisers, artists, activists and groups who have carried NAIDOC forward for five decades.
Community groups are encouraged to join in the program and plan their own local event.
Discover how you can participate in NAIDOC Week 2026 at the NAIDOC Regional Guide webpage.