2025 Mourning in the Morning – Smoking Ceremony 

26 January means different things to different people. To some, it is ‘Australia Day’ and a time for celebration. But for others – including many First Nations people – the date is difficult, challenging and a source of extreme grief and sorrow. 

The Australia Day Council of South Australia (ADCSA) considers the date a time for reflection and mature, respectful conversation, and is proud each year to host Mourning in the Morning in Adelaide. 

This First Nations-led, family-friendly event offers an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share their perspectives on history and hopes and aspirations for the future. And it enables non-Indigenous allies and supporters of reconciliation – old and new friends – to show their support, appreciation and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and issues. 

Mourning in the Morning 2025  will have a focus on First Nations languages. 

Ever since the first sunrise more than 65,000 years ago, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have nurtured and been the knowledge holders for their traditional lands ‘Country’. They use ancient words to express, describe and honour Country. And it speaks through them. 

First Nations languages should be valued, respected and cherished, yet tragically today many are under serious threat. Urgent action is needed to document, revive, strengthen and protect them. At Mourning in the Morning, hear languages spoken and sung, and learn about their regenerative power, how they better connect us all with ‘place’, and their role in a better, more compelling and inclusive ‘national story’. 

Mourning in the Morning 2025 highlights will include: 

• A Welcome to Kaurna Country 

• Keynote speaker Yankunytjatjara woman, climate justice campaigner, and senior Aboriginal language expert Karina Lester 

• Music, dance, storytelling 

• Interactive activities 

• A Smoking Ceremony conducted by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner (and everyone is invited to join in) 

The event will start at 7.30am and conclude at 8.45am. It’ll be held in Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama, between the Adelaide Festival Centre Plaza and the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri. 

Bring a hat and sunscreen, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. Some seating will be provided. Food and drink vendors will be on site. 

Follow the ADCSA website and socials for updates on the program. 

Mourning in the Morning Smoking Ceremony sponsors Accenture, Sarah Constructions and SA Power Networks. 

The program is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and the City the Adelaide and is supported by a grant from the Government of South Australia.