Marmungun Rock Ceremony
Published on 19 May 2023
Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to partner with the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network to hold this year’s Marmungun Rock Ceremony and celebrate Citizen of the Year Neil Jarrott, as his carved handprint on the rock is revealed.
The Ceremony will be held during Reconciliation Week on Sunday 28 May at 11am at the Marmungun Rock in Apex Park, Wangaratta.
Respected Elder, Wally Cooper, whose pride in his Aboriginal heritage and message of hope for the future inspired many, conceived the idea of this rock as a place where the rich history and strong leaders of our region could be recognised.
Marmungun means “of this group” or of this area and is understood to be the closest traditional word for “community”. Mr Cooper was able to connect Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people helping to build respect, understanding and reconciliation. His legacy continues.
The Marmungun Rock Ceremony and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community recognise the Wangaratta Citizen of the Year who has demonstrated the qualities of an Elder – community service, integrity, and wisdom.
Rural City of Wangaratta Citizen of the Year Neil Jarrott was awarded for his community work and commitment to his hometown of Moyhu, and his carved handprint on the Marmungun Rock will be a place for family and community to recognise his commitment and contribution to his community.
“Neil is an outstanding ambassador. He has been a tireless volunteer and is incredibly deserving of not only the Australia Day Award but also the honour to forever be connected with the Marmungun Rock and the meaning behind it,” said Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor, Councillor Dean Rees.
“This ceremony is an important time to continue our commitment to reconciliation. It is a great pleasure to honour our history, our leaders and our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, with the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network.”
“Please join us as we continue the important process of reconciliation in our community,” said Cr Rees.
Please confirm your attendance at the ceremony at dirrawarranetwork@outlook.com, for catering purposes.