Elder Iris Blackhall’s wisdom filled the room as Oyster Tribe launched the Aboriginal Languages Trust (ALT) Revival Program, bringing together community members for an unforgettable celebration of culture, stories, and connection.
Introduction: When Stories Come Alive
There is something profoundly moving that happens when Elders share their stories. The room grows quiet, hearts open, and generations are woven together by words that carry the strength of thousands of years. That was the spirit we experienced when Oyster Tribe proudly launched our Aboriginal Languages Trust Revival Program, Listening to the Voices of Our Ancestors, on Wiradjuri Country at our Dubbo office.
This gathering wasn’t just about preserving language. It was about safeguarding the essence of who we are as Aboriginal people — our culture, our values, and the stories that connect us across time, place, and generations.
The Heart of Our Gathering
The Heart of Our Gathering
From early morning, our local coordinator Tara Blackhall worked alongside a dedicated team of volunteers to transform the Dubbo office into a space of warmth and belonging. The preparation went beyond setting up chairs and tables. It was a thoughtful act of cultural care:
- Cultural protocols were carefully observed to ensure respect and safety.
- Seating was arranged to encourage conversation and closeness.
- Traditional elements were incorporated to ground the space in culture.
- Hospitality was prepared with the intention of welcoming all with open hearts.
The work of the volunteers wasn’t just logistical — it was spiritual. They created a sacred environment where ancient wisdom could be shared and received with deep respect.
Elder Iris Blackhall: A Living Library of Wisdom
When Elder Iris Blackhall began to speak, the atmosphere shifted. Her presence was both grounding and uplifting, and her words carried the weight of generations. She did more than share stories — she gifted lived experiences that embodied Wiradjuri values and knowledge.
She spoke of the three guiding pillars of her life’s journey, each a cornerstone of Aboriginal strength:
- Culture — the foundation connecting us to Country, ancestors, and identity.
- Education — the lifelong responsibility to learn, grow, and pass knowledge forward.
- Family — the kinship bonds that provide belonging, support, and resilience.
These values were not abstract. Through her own journey, Elder Iris showed how they became guiding lights during challenges, how they shaped decisions, and how they continue to inspire Aboriginal people today.
The Magic of Intergenerational Connection
Stories That Bridge Time
As Elder Iris shared her cultural stories, the session became a living example of how storytelling connects generations. Each narrative carried multiple dimensions:
- Historical knowledge of how our people lived and thrived.
- Cultural teachings about values, relationships, and responsibilities.
- Practical wisdom for navigating life with strength and integrity.
- Spiritual reminders of our deep connection to Country and ancestors.
Creating Safe Space for Exchange
The inclusive atmosphere allowed participants both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal to listen, reflect, and connect. Young people heard echoes of their own journeys within the stories, while others gained fresh perspectives on Aboriginal ways of knowing and being. It was a powerful reminder that stories are not just memories of the past — they are bridges to the future.
Community Spirit in Action
The Power of Sharing Food
No Aboriginal gathering is complete without sharing food. In the afternoon, fruit platters, juice, and pizza brought everyone together for “a good feed.” But this was more than a meal — it was a continuation of culture:
- A tradition of generosity and welcome.
- A way to build relationships through relaxed conversation.
- An expression of care for community wellbeing.
- A chance to continue learning in informal, shared moments
An Atmosphere of Deep Contentment
As the day drew to a close, a sense of quiet fulfillment filled the room. Participants left not only with stories in their hearts but with strengthened connections to each other, to culture, and to community. The contentment reflected something profound: our deep human need for cultural belonging, and the joy that comes when that need is met.
Building for the Future
The First of Many Gatherings
This event marked the beginning of a much larger journey. Under the ALT Revival Program, future gatherings will continue to record and preserve cultural knowledge with care, ensuring it remains accessible for future generations. Each event will also celebrate Wiradjuri heritage in meaningful ways, creating moments where culture is not only remembered but actively lived and shared.
Equally important, these gatherings will deepen the connection between Elders and younger community members. By strengthening these intergenerational relationships, the program ensures that knowledge, values, and stories continue to flow across time. In doing so, it safeguards cultural continuity and identity for years to come.
A Living Program with Growing Impact
The success of this inaugural gathering lays a strong foundation for what is to come. The knowledge shared, the relationships formed, and the connections renewed will ripple outward through the community, creating lasting positive impact. Far beyond the event itself, these cultural exchanges will continue to inspire pride, belonging, and resilience in those who carry them forward.
Gratitude and Recognition
Honouring Our Elders
At the heart of this event was Elder Iris Blackhall, whose generosity and leadership made the gathering possible. Her willingness to share wisdom is a profound act of cultural care, ensuring that Wiradjuri culture remains strong and vibrant for future generations. We hold deep gratitude for her guidance, which reminds us of the strength and resilience carried within every story.
Community Champions
The success of the day was also a true community effort. Local coordinator Tara Blackhall played a key role in leading the organisation, ensuring every detail honoured culture and community. Volunteers gave their time and energy to create a safe, welcoming space where stories could be shared. Participants arrived with open hearts, listening with respect and carrying the teachings forward. Together, these contributions made the gathering deeply meaningful.
Partnership and Support
The ALT Revival Program also represents a meaningful collaboration between Oyster Tribe and the Oyster Care Foundation, working side by side to preserve culture and empower the next generation. This partnership reflects the importance of Aboriginal-led cultural initiatives, where community ownership and leadership are central.
We also acknowledge the vital support of the NSW Government through the Aboriginal Languages Trust, whose investment makes it possible for Aboriginal communities to take the lead in preserving and revitalising their languages and cultural knowledge. With this support, programs like ALT are able to grow in strength and impact, ensuring culture continues to thrive for generations to come.
The Ripple Effect of Cultural Connection
The launch of Listening to the Voices of Our Ancestors was more than an event. It was a powerful affirmation of the role culture plays in strengthening identity, building community, and inspiring hope for the future.
When Elder Iris shared her wisdom, she carried forward an ancient practice of cultural transmission one that has sustained Wiradjuri people for countless generations. Her three guiding values culture, education, and family remain as vital today as they have always been.
The warmth, connection, and sense of belonging that filled the day remind us that cultural connection is not a luxury it is a necessity. When we listen to the voices of our ancestors, we don’t only remember the past; we also discover pathways to a stronger and more connected future.
This program shows what is possible when Aboriginal communities are resourced to lead their own initiatives, supported through genuine partnerships that respect and amplify Aboriginal voices.
Join Our Cultural Journey
There are many ways to walk alongside us in preserving and celebrating Wiradjuri culture. You can attend future events with Oyster Tribe, supporting the ALT Revival Program as stories and traditions continue to be shared.
Honouring our Elders is another important step, as they generously pass on cultural wisdom. You can also volunteer your time to help create safe, welcoming spaces for community and culture. By sharing our stories within your networks and learning more about Wiradjuri heritage, you help strengthen understanding and appreciation for Aboriginal culture.
Most importantly, take time to listen — to Elders, community leaders, and young people who are working every day to keep our cultures strong. These stories are not only part of Aboriginal heritage; they are part of Australia’s shared history, with the power to enrich us all.
Ready to connect with our cultural programs? Contact Oyster Tribe to learn more about upcoming events and how you can support Aboriginal language revival initiatives. Together, we can ensure the voices of our ancestors continue to guide future generations.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where this work takes place and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging.
