AS part of this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, the Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre in Moree is proud to launch a special exhibition, Bridging Now to Next.

The powerful community initiative calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons become guides – a sentiment echoed in this year’s national reconciliation message.

“This exhibition is more than a display,” says Dhiiyaan Centre collection officer, Raquel Clarke.

“It is a bridge between generations, cultures, and futures. It reminds us all that reconciliation is not just about looking back, it’s about moving forward, together.”

Moree Plains Shire Council’s community, culture and libraries manager, Alisa Akins, said true reconciliation is not just an Indigenous issue.

“It’s an Australian journey,” she said.

“As a non-Aboriginal Australian, I believe it’s our responsibility to listen, learn, and work in genuine partnership with First Nations people.

“This exhibition is a perfect example of what can happen when we do that, with respect, honesty, and hope.”

The Moree exhibition brings together history, memory and creativity, and weaves stories of connection across generations and communities through three key elements.

Moree Mission Church circa 1970s (Image credit: Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales).

A Personal Return: Photographic donation by Mrs Pam Pritchard

In a moving act of remembrance and respect, Mrs Pam Pritchard, program and foundation chair of Rotary Turramurra and daughter of Moree Aboriginal School principal, returns four historical photographs of the Moree Reserve to the Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre.

These deeply personal images, taken during her childhood years on the Reserve, will be formally handed back during the event.

The moment will be shared with local Elders and former Mission School students, offering space for reflection and shared memory.

Bridging Past and Present: A visual journey through history

An exhibition of historical photographs sourced from the State Library of NSW, the Australian National University archives, and the Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre’s own collection, curated by Raquel Clarke, will be displayed alongside contemporary images.

This blend of old and new offers a window into the enduring strength and resilience of Aboriginal communities in Moree and surrounding regions.

Community Voices in Clay: Pottery from the Moree Arts Community Centre

The Moree Arts Community Centre – an inclusive, not-for-profit collective – presents a vibrant selection of pottery works, adding a tactile and creative dimension to the exhibition.

Formed 18 months ago, the group approached Dhiiyaan with a shared desire to celebrate diversity and connection through art.

Their work reflects a commitment to healing, dialogue, and the creative spirit of Moree.

NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, Robert Harris, said National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to walk together to create a fairer and more equitable country.

“This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, invites us to consider the next steps in our shared journey of reconciliation and how we will enact real change,” Mr Harris said.

“At its heart, reconciliation is about forging meaningful relationships built on truth and trust.

“Walking together requires all Australians to acknowledge our shared history.”

Mr Harris said the NSW Government is committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal organisations, communities and people to Close the Gap.

“Our focus is on shared decision-making. We know that when Closing the Gap solutions are designed, led, and implemented by Aboriginal people and communities, in partnership with Government, we get better outcomes,” he said.

“All of us in NSW have the chance to be a ‘bridge from now to next’ because reconciliation isn’t the work of Aboriginal communities – it’s the responsibility of every one of us.

“Start where you are and stay committed, because reconciliation is a sustained effort, grounded in respect and accountability.

“I encourage people to learn about your local Aboriginal culture and country and attend a local reconciliation event in your community, acknowledge the hurt, along with stories of hope and togetherness from our shared history.

“And, most importantly, listen,” Mr Harris said.

The public is warmly invited to attend the launch and view the exhibition at Moree Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre throughout Reconciliation Week and honour the past, celebrate the present and look boldly to the future.

Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre for a Special Reconciliation Week Exhibition

Where: Corner of Heber & Balo Streets, Moree

When: From Wednesday, May 28

Time: 12-midday – 5pm

Cost: Free

Everyone Welcome