Bridging Now to Next: Rec in the West

Children in vibrant costumes enjoy an outdoor event, smiling and playing together in a festive atmosphere.
Reconciliation Week 2025 is here—and families from across Adelaide’s western suburbs are invited to take part in one of its biggest and most beloved events: Rec in the West!

Held at Tauondi Aboriginal College in Port Adelaide, this vibrant community celebration will take place on Thursday, 29 May, at 10am.

From a colour run and giant inflatable zoo, to live music, Kaurna language and dance workshops, and nearly 60 community stalls, Rec in the West is packed with fun, culture, and connection.

A woman smiles as an artist paints her face at a lively outdoor event.

More than just a fun day out

Rec in the West has been running for more than a decade and continues to grow as a powerful way for families to reflect on the meaning of reconciliation in Australia.

Tauondi Aboriginal College Chairperson Brenz Saunders shared how meaningful this event is for the whole community: “As we come together to commemorate reconciliation in this country, this year’s theme ‘Bridging Now to Next’ is a crucial reminder for government, community organisations and community leaders to ensure that there is space for our future generations to participate in dialogue and decision-making to ultimately ensure they inherit a just and equitable landscape of affairs that is empathic of the challenges being experienced in today’s world.”

This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, highlights the importance of making sure today’s young people are heard and involved in shaping a fairer, kinder future.

A group of people joyfully dancing on the sand during a vibrant sunset.
Aboriginal workshops during Rec in the West.

A team effort with community spirit

Rec in the West is proudly presented through a partnership between Tauondi Aboriginal College, Life Without Barriers, AnglicareSA, and UnitingSA—organisations working together to create an event grounded in respect and unity.

“Reconciliation in the West is a perfect example of the importance of strong partnerships towards championing reconciliation. Tauondi’s partnership with AnglicareSA, Life Without Barriers and UnitingSA continues to embody a spirit of unity grounded in respect and action,” Mr Saunders says.

As we continue to operate in a forever evolving landscape, Tauondi remains committed to empowering our community through education, opportunity, and strong Aboriginal leadership.”

Two young children in white shirts and hats, smiling with colorful paint splatters on their clothing.

Why Reconciliation Week matters

Every year, National Reconciliation Week runs from 27 May to 3 June, marking two key moments in Australia’s history:

  • 27 May is the anniversary of the 1967 referendum, when Australians voted to remove discriminatory clauses from the Constitution.

  • 3 June is the anniversary of the Mabo decision, when the High Court recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ connection to land was not erased by colonisation.

These dates help remind us all—adults and children alike—why reconciliation is important, and why it’s something we can all be part of.


For more details, visit the Rec in the West Facebook page here.

 

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