Bridging now to next: TBYS hosts powerful reconciliation learning event

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2025, The Bridge Youth Service hosted a deeply moving and hands-on Reconciliation Internal Learning (RIL) Event in Shepparton on Yorta Yorta Country, bringing together over 45 staff and board members to listen, learn and reflect on the ongoing journey of reconciliation.

Organised by the organisation’s Reconciliation Working Group and RAP champion Renae Brophy, the event aimed to amplify First Nations voices, centre truth-telling and deepen cultural connection within the workplace.

Held under this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme “Bridging Now to Next”, the event featured keynote speaker Nartarsha Bamblett and First Nations specialist consultant Bobbie Pepper.

“I was honoured to organise and attend a powerful and deeply moving internal reconciliation event that brought truth-telling, cultural connection, and meaningful stories with hands-on experiences to the forefront,” Ms Brophy, Youth and Family Support Program Manager, said. “I walked away feeling incredibly proud to work for The Bridge Youth Service with our ongoing commitment to reconciliation.”

Ms Bamblett, a respected Yorta Yorta woman and dynamic speaker, urged attendees to reflect deeply on the many layers of reconciliation:

“Reconciliation is not only happening between you and First Nations people, but it’s also taking place in First Nations people themselves. Reconciling with the past and history, reconciling with what can be in the future… That’s the bridge — it’s beyond the gaps and beyond the stats,” she said.

Following the keynote, participants engaged in a weaving workshop led by Karperap woman and First Nations Specialist Consultant Bobbie Pepper. The tactile activity of weaving bracelets and baskets provided a quiet, grounded opportunity for cultural reflection and connection.

Many staff shared reflections throughout the day and afterwards, noting how impactful and emotional the experience was.

Comments included:

“It was powerful to just sit and listen—no pressure to speak, just to take it all in.”
“I was grateful for the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and connect more deeply with our purpose.”

Lunch and creative activities added to the sense of cultural respect, connection, and calm. Colouring-in sheets and a shared space for written reflections helped foster open dialogue in a safe and thoughtful environment.

CEO Melinda Lawley acknowledged the importance of moments like these in walking the path toward genuine cultural safety.

“We want to learn, to understand, both the ancient culture and the local culture that influences young people and their families in the communities we serve,” Ms Lawley said.

The Bridge Youth Service is currently developing its second Reconciliation Action Plan (Innovate).

National Reconciliation Week is held annually from 27 May to 3 June, commemorating two key milestones: the 1967 referendum and the 1992 Mabo decision. This year’s theme, “Bridging Now to Next”, invites all Australians to honour truth, listen deeply, and take meaningful action toward a more unified and respectful nation.