’s Ozanam Residential Care joined voices with students from neighbouring St Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School to deliver a stirring performance as part of the nationwide Voices for Reconciliation initiative. ){kind=link}
In a heartwarming tribute to Reconciliation, generations came together in Garran in the ACT to deliver a musical performance with a message of unity, truth, and hope.
Residents of Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT)’s Ozanam Residential Care joined voices with students from neighbouring St Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School to deliver a stirring performance as part of the nationwide Voices for Reconciliation initiative.
The intergenerational choir, with members aged from just 7 to over 100, performed a powerful rendition of the iconic Aussie anthem Solid Rock, a song that speaks of dispossession and resilience.
Their voices were guided by 2023 Australian Idol winner and proud Indigenous artist, Royston Noell, whose presence added a deeply personal and cultural resonance to the event.
Weeks of preparation saw the young and young at heart not only learning lyrics and choreography but also engaging in meaningful conversations about the significance of Reconciliation and the importance of closing the gap.
“This choir reminds us of the power of coming together,” said Monique Reynolds, CEO of Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT).
“It reflects the beauty of our intergenerational and community programs and reinforces our unwavering commitment to Reconciliation and justice for First Nations peoples.
“At Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT), Reconciliation is more than a word—it’s a commitment to building relationships, understanding, and unity.
“National Reconciliation Week offers us the opportunity to strengthen relationships, acknowledge our shared history, celebrate the rich cultures of our First Nations peoples, and commit to meaningful action that creates a more inclusive future for all.”
St Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School teacher Lisa Gill said the stirring performance was one the students would remember for years to come.
“The students were very excited to be part of the Reconciliation Australia choir with their friends at Southern Cross Care, which doubled when they found out that they would also be singing with Royston Noell,” she said.
“It’s been a wonderful way to lead into Reconciliation Week, fostering an excitement and curiosity and to continue to learn about the shared history, culture and achievements of First Nations and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.”