National Sorry Day 2026
Description
National Sorry Day is a moment for reflection, truth-telling, and strengthening the journey toward reconciliation.
On Tuesday, 26 May 2026, the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, Camden Council, Campbelltown City Council, Wollondilly Council, Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, and Uniting, invites the community to come together for a special event honouring the Stolen Generations and amplifying Aboriginal voices.
The day will open with a catered morning tea, followed by a ceremony featuring a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony, truth-telling, cultural performances, and youth voices sharing their visions for the future. After the formal proceedings, attendees are welcome to enjoy live entertainment, participate in workshops, and connect with community stalls. Food trucks will also be available on-site for those wishing to purchase meals.
This event offers a respectful and inclusive space for learning, listening, and deepening connection to Country.
Gallery
Agenda
- 10:00 am - 10:30 am
Morning Tea
Enjoy morning tea on arrival catered by Plate Events, featuring a selection of Aboriginal‑inspired cuisine that celebrates native flavours and local storytelling through food. Freshly brewed coffee and tea will be available for purchase from the on‑site coffee van.
- 10:30 am - 11:15 am
Sorry Day ceremony
The ceremony will honour culture, connection and community through a rich and engaging program. Proceedings will begin with a Welcome to Country, followed by an interactive smoking ceremony inviting reflection, cleansing and shared participation. Guests will experience the powerful sounds of the didgeridoo and traditional dance, celebrating story, movement and music. The program will also feature a childcare performance presented in language, highlighting the importance of culture from an early age, alongside youth voices, sharing perspectives that reflect the strength, leadership and future of the next generation.
- 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Native cooking demonstration
Join acclaimed chef Matt Atkins from Plate Events for a live native food cooking demonstration celebrating Australia’s unique ingredients and culinary heritage. Matt will present a recipe specially created for the venue, showcasing how native flavours can be thoughtfully woven into contemporary cuisine. Insightful, engaging and delicious, this demonstration offers a deeper appreciation of native ingredients, their stories, and their place on the plate.
- 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
School Stage Performances
The stage will come alive with performances by two local high schools, proudly showcasing the talents of Aboriginal students. This vibrant session will feature a range of creative expressions, celebrating culture, identity and youth voice through performance. It is an opportunity to recognise and support young people as they share their stories, skills and pride on stage.
- 11:30 am - 2:00 pm
Activities and Workshops
A diverse program of hands‑on activities and workshops will run throughout the day, inviting participation, creativity and conversation. Guests are welcome to take part in community sand painting with Wangari Karntawarra, sharing stories through collective artwork, and experience dance and ochre painting led by Milan Dhiiyaan, exploring movement, colour and cultural expression. Reflective and meaningful Elder truth‑telling sessions with Kinchela Boys Home Survivors will provide space for listening and learning, while a weaving workshop by A Little Bit of Rainbow offers the chance to learn traditional techniques firsthand. Additional experiences include bush tucker tours, offering insight into native plants and their uses, a self‑guided walk to the Stolen Generations Monument for quiet reflection, boomerang painting, and a range of community stalls.
- 11:30 am - 2:00 pm
Elders Room
A dedicated Elders Room will be available throughout the event as a quiet, comfortable space to relax and recharge. This room is reserved exclusively for Elders, offering a calm environment away from the main program. Light food and a coffee and tea station will be provided for comfort and convenience, creating a welcoming space for rest, conversation and connection.
- 11:30 am - 2:00 pm
Food Trucks & Refreshments
Lunch and drinks will be available to purchase from on‑site food trucks, including Aboriginal‑inspired cuisine and an additional food option. A coffee van will also be operating throughout the day.
FAQs
- How do I find the venue?
The event will be held on the Herbarium Forecourt, within the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan.
It is best to enter the Garden via the gate on Narellan Road and follow the one-way road until you reach the Plantbank and Herbarium. Traffic controllers will be able to guide you to the best parking location. - Is the event accessible?
The venue is accessible, with accessible pathways and amenities available. If you have specific access requirements, please contact the event team at mtannan.events@botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au in advance or speak with staff on the day.
- Is the event suitable for families and children?
Yes. The event includes family‑friendly activities and performances, and welcomes people of all ages.
- What should I bring?
We recommend bringing sun protection, water, and comfortable walking shoes. You are welcome to bring your own picnic lunch.
- Is food provided?
Morning tea is catered. Lunch and additional refreshments are available to purchase from food trucks and the coffee van.
- How can I get involved or learn more?
For further information or enquiries about involvement, volunteering or partnerships, please email the events team at mtannan.events@botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au
- What items are prohibited?
To maintain a safe and welcoming space, the following items are not permitted:
Alcohol or illicit substances
Weapons or sharp objects
Drones
Bat and ball games
Any items that may disrupt the event or cause harm
- Is the event alcohol-free?
Yes. This is a strictly no‑alcohol event to ensure a safe and appropriate environment for all attendees.
- Can I get to the event via public transport?
Yes. The venue is accessible via public transport. Please check Transport for NSW trip planner or your preferred public transport app closer to the event for the most up‑to‑date routes, timetables, and any service changes. Allow extra travel time, it is an approximate 2km walk from the nearest bus stop on Narellan Rd.
- Is there going to be a photographer?
There will be an event photographer as well as media on site for the event. If you do not wish to be in their content, please chat to them directly.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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