Bundjalung of Byron Bay Arakwal people are committed to working in genuine partnership within our Byron Shire area with schools, businesses and local council. Ceremonies and protocols are a vital part of Aboriginal culture. As part of this commitment we present to you protocols to be used in promotion of greater understanding of Arakwal Bundjalung people’s obligation to country and culture.

Arranging a “Welcome to Country” of the land shows respect for Arakwal Bundjalung people as the First Peoples. Welcome to Country promotes an awareness, understanding and mutual respect for cultural practices by both Arakwal Bundjalung and the wider community through observation of protocols and sharing in cultural practice. Improving relationships between the local Aboriginal community and the wider community through ceremony, protocols and the process of collaborative negotiation is vital.

It is important that these protocols are used in consultation with Bundjalung of Byron Bay Aboriginal Corporation to ensure local customs and etiquette are adhered to respectfully.

Welcome to Country can be performed and designed to suit the event or audience.

It also is depending on the custodian who is a representative of Bundjalung of Byron Bay Arakwal people.

It can include stories, a speech, singing, dancing, and smoking ceremony.

A welcome to country creates a harmonious resonance for your event or group.

If you would like to contact us regarding our Welcome to Country ceremonies, please call the Arakwal Aboriginal Corp. Office: 02 6685 8746.

Arakwal Welcome To Country