Culture at the Heart of Healing Conference
More than 80 Buttery staff from across the Mid and North coast gathered on May 20-21 for the Culture at the Heart of Healing conference. Taking place at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Corindi Beach, Gumbaynggirr Nation, the event gave staff an opportunity to experience First Nations culture in a meaningful way and learn about the significance of connection to Country—encompassing land, water, sky, and all living beings—and how this shapes identity, wellbeing, and community.
It is also served as a chance for all staff to reconnect in person for the first time in nearly three years, to strengthen relationships across programs, and to share in shaping the future of The Buttery as an organisation committed to cultural safety, inclusion, and respect.
Two-days of immersive activities ensued; starting with a Welcome to Country and Water Cleansing Ceremony courtesy of local elders Aunty Allison and Aunty Ange. Bush tucker walks, clay making, and the sharing of creation stories all formed a part of the agenda. As did a panel discussion ‘You Can’t Ask That’, MC’d by CEO Leone Crayden, and including with panellists Buttery staff, and RAP committee members Elke Wooderson and Liza Conroy.
Guest speaker Jem Stone, We Al-li lead facilitator and trainer, also took part in the conference. The proud First Nations woman of Bundjalung descent explored her cultural approach to supporting trauma recovery, education, and community wellbeing.
Culture at the Heart of Healing offered a meaningful opportunity for listening, reflection, and connection, helping Buttery staff to deepen our understanding so we can stand alongside our First Nations participants and colleagues and provide care that is safer, more responsive, and better aligned with cultural needs and ways of healing.
With more than 50 years of service behind us and a strong Reconciliation Action Plan guiding our work, this conference marks an important step forward in continuing to build a culturally aware and inclusive future together.