On Country Gathering 2025
Event description
Woor-Dungin's On Country Gathering is a unique annual 3-day event which brings together representatives of philanthropic bodies and Aboriginal communities from across Victoria to share experiences, discuss issues and forge new partnerships. The Gathering's unique approach of facilitating conversation and collaboration means that Aboriginal organisations get a voice in discussing the issues they care about most, while philanthropy has a truly unique opportunity to learn more about the aspirations of First Nations Victorians.
This year's program brings 11 unique sessions over three transformative days, not to mention the all inclusive delicious meals, networking and relationship building opportunities in a gorgeous location amongst the gums. This on Country gathering is offering an unprecedented range of learning opportunities and connection points.
This year’s Gathering will feature:
Systems Change Conversations
We'll hear from leading voices in truth-telling, treaty, and justice. Presentations from Yoorrook and the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria will explore how we move from talking about change to embodying it at a national level. |
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Cultural Grounding
Our gathering begins with the deep cultural practice of welcome to country and a smoking ceremony from Djaara, ensuring our gathering is held in right relationship from day one. |
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Hands-On Learning
From the Deep Time walk to the Cultural Audit and Toolkit workshop, you'll have opportunities to engage with new ways of understanding Country, culture, and collaborative practice. |
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The ACCO Showcase
Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations from across the state will present their work, sharing projects, stories, challenges, and visions for the future. This is about deep listening and building about understanding of incredible diversity and strength of First Nations-led initiatives across Victoria. |
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The Gala Dinner
Monday evening marks the official launch of our Decolonising Philanthropy: Cultural Audit and Toolkit. Ten years in the making this celebration will honour the deep collaboration between philanthropic bodies, Aboriginal leaders, and knowledge holders that has brought this initiative to life. |
Relationship Building
Whether it's the campfire conversations, our ACCO/Philanthropy speed dating session, or the quiet moments by the lake, there will be countless opportunities to build the alliances that matter. |
Accomodation
This year, the gathering is on Dja Dja Wurrung country where the landscapes sings stories of transformation, knowledge sharing and enduring strength.
We will be staying at the RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick, 15 minutes from Ballarat. Nestled amid rolling hills and the storied landscapes of the Victorian goldfields this location offers us a truly spectacular setting for our gathering. From its tranquil lake views to its cosy meeting spaces, this venue will provide the perfect backdrop for deep reflection, cultural exchange, and celebration on Country.
Good news for those still considering staying on site with us! We have available king single private rooms booked exclusively for on country gathering participants. Let us know if you'd like to stay at the resort for the gathering and we'll put you up.
Places are limited and priority will be given to First Nations-led organisations and aligned philanthropic representatives.
Check out the vibe at a previous gathering here
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
