Different Colours One People (DCoP)

The Zebra Lounge Restaurant at the end of Harris Street in Pyrmont is one of Sydney's most scenic eateries situated right on the water on Sydney Harbour.

We invite you and your family to join us at this wonderful meeting place for our communities on January 26th, 2025, to Reflect on, Respect, and Celebrate the stories from Australia's oldest living cultures while enjoying a FREE gourmet sausage sizzle, lamb on a spit and vegetable dishes.

Welcome to Country will be gifted by respected Gadigal Elder Aunty Barbara Simms who is a passionate community leader for Aged Care and Cancer Council campaigner. Aunty Barbra will be joined by educator and PhD candidate Ms Kaiya Aboagye of Western Sydney University who will share her young perspective on Torres Strait and ASSI younger generations living in Sydney. Kaiya is joined by accomplished artist culture keeper Toby Cedar of Cedar Arts who will share his deep knowledge of the traditional art practices of Torres Strait and kinship with Erub Island for Blackbirded descendants. 

There will be music by Pyrmont local the soulful Emily Blake a young Bundjalung / Tongan and Australian South Sea Islander woman. On every table, Aboriginal Weaving Specialist Aunty Karleen Green will gift a free weaving lesson for those interested in learning this ancient customary practice.

This event is supported by the Australia Day Council and coordinated by Australian South Sea Islanders (Port Jackson) also a Pyrmont-based not-for-profit. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our delivery partner Craig Jarman the Owner/Manager of The Zebra Lounge who is a great believer in community cohesion and truth-telling for our nation as we activate new spaces.

The essence of this day reflects  Different Colours One People (DCoP) as a vibrant tapestry of humanity. DCoP symbolises the rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and experiences that shape our world. Each hue tells a story—deep blues evoke tranquillity and depth of our oceanic region, while bright yellows radiate warmth and optimism through cultural exchange. Earthy tones reflect our connection to our country, reminding us of the roots we share in calling Australia home, while bold reds inspire passion and survival through resilience. These colours, when woven together, create a beautiful mosaic that celebrates our individuality while highlighting our shared humanity. In essence, although our skin may come in various shades, we are united as one people, each contributing to the kaleidoscope of life that enriches our global community.

Watch here: Blackbirding Roslyn Long & (Waskam) Emelda Davis SBS-TV Going Places with Ernie Dingo & Bianca Hunt

See photo of The Zebra Lounge location: