Join us to commemorate Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week
Published on 12 May 2026
Mount Alexander Shire Council invites the community to come together to commemorate National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week through a series of local events.
Sorry Day, held annually on 26 May, is a day of remembrance that acknowledges the pain and injustice experienced by members of the Stolen Generations and the ongoing impacts felt today.
National Reconciliation Week follows from Wednesday 27 May to Wednesday 3 June. This year’s theme, ‘All In’, calls on all Australians to actively commit to reconciliation — recognising that meaningful change requires participation, learning and action from everyone.
Mount Alexander Shire Mayor Toby Heydon said these commemorations are an opportunity for reflection, learning and unity.
“Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week invite us to pause, listen and stand alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Cr Heydon said.
“Our community has a strong sense of care and connection. By showing up, learning and reflecting together, we take meaningful steps toward healing and reconciliation.”
As part of Council’s commitment to reconciliation, Council hosts the Mount Alexander Shire Indigenous Roundtable, co‑chaired by Uncle Rick Nelson and the Mayor. Council also works under its Reconciliation Action Plan 2023–2026, adopted in November 2023, guided by the vision to walk together with courage and purpose.
Nalderun Education Aboriginal Corporation will be releasing a full program of National Reconciliation Week activities on its website in the coming week.
Sorry Day Commemoration
When: Tuesday 26 May, 10.00am–12.00pm
Where: Castlemaine Botanical Gardens (near the playground), Castlemaine
The event will include:
- Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Uncle Rick Nelson
- Reflections from Mayor Toby Heydon and local school leaders
National Reconciliation Week Launch
When: Wednesday 27 May, 10.00am–12.00pm
Where: Market Building, Castlemaine
The launch will feature:
- Launch of Uncle Ron Murray’s The Little Platypus Teaching (Wamba Wamba, Tatiara man)
- Nalderun Awards
- First Nations‑made artworks and products for sale
- Morning tea provided
The Guildford Biyal (Red gum) Honouring Day
When: 31 May, 11.00am - 2.00pm (ceremony starts at 11.30)
Where: The Guildford Big Tree, 13 Fryers St, Guildford
Unveiling of the Reconciliation Seat, Djaara Women dancers, free BBQ, music, First Nations stalls.
For more information about Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week, visit www.reconciliation.org.au.
Community event details are available at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Community-events-and-things-to-do.
Image: Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Uncle Rick Nelson (right) at the Welcome Baby to Country Ceremony.