Close to 3,000 people gathered at Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama for Mourning in the Morning, a respectful and inclusive First Nations-led ceremony shaped by South Australian Aboriginal leaders. Guided by the theme Our Continuing Journey, the Morning held space for Mourning and truth-telling, while affirming the living strength, resilience and continuity of First Nations cultures across these lands.
The ceremony opened with a Welcome to Kaurna Country by Major Uncle Moogy Sumner AM, followed by a traditional dance by Tal-kin-jeri. Uncle Moogy invited those gathered into the sand circle to share the Emu and Kangaroo dance together, a powerful expression of connection, participation and continuity.
Eminent barrister Anthony McAvoy SC delivered a powerful address reflecting on South Australia’s history and the role of truth-telling in shaping a more just future. Drawing on decades of legal advocacy for Indigenous rights, he spoke to the enduring presence of Indigenous law, culture and connection to Country, reminding the audience that these foundations were never extinguished and continue to inform who we are as a nation.
An informal yarning conversation, led by Marcellus Enalanga, brought together Leeroy Bilney and Deb Moyle to explore practical pathways for respectful collaboration with First Nations communities. Deb Moyle’s reflections emphasised prevention, accountability and shared responsibility, underscoring that meaningful change comes from listening early, acting together and valuing First Nations leadership.
Original music by Rob Edwards shared his family’s Stolen Generations story, followed by contemporary dance by WAYIN: THI — a Kaurna word meaning move and flow. Uncle Eddie Peters closed the performance program with an acoustic set weaving his Torres Strait Islander heritage and stories of island life, reinforcing the diversity and richness of First Nations cultures across land and sea.
This year’s program was curated by First Nations Lead Letisha Ackland of Balya Productions, working collaboratively with the First Nations Open Circle. Australia Day Council of South Australia Chief Executive Jan Chorley reflected on the significance of this shared work, noting that the ceremony continues to grow as a space for truth, respect and listening inviting South Australians to engage with humility and care.
A dedicated segment titled Respectfully Yours invited community members to share reflections throughout the Morning. Messages spoke of solidarity and responsibility, capturing a collective willingness to engage with truth, acknowledge pain and commit to a shared future. As one reflection expressed:
“Very special to share the morning — mourning the history and ongoing challenges while sharing hope and commitment for a better future, together.”
The ceremony concluded with a cleansing smoking ceremony led by Uncle Moogy, bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians together in a moment of respect, love and peace. Mourning in the Morning continues to affirm that this journey is ongoing, collective, and shared by all who walk alongside First Nations peoples in the spirit of recognition, understanding and unity.
Sincere thanks are also extended to our partners and supporters, whose ongoing commitment makes Mourning in the Morning possible. Ceremony key event partner SA Power Networks community support partners Adelaide PHN, Adelaide University, Credit Union SA, Sarah Constructions, SDA and Sofitel Adelaide.
The program is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council, the City of Adelaide, and is supported by the Government of South Australia.