The Appin Massacre is one of the darkest days in Macarthur’s history.
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To mark the 202 anniversary of the massacre, locals are asked to pay their respects and ensure the day is never forgotten.
In 1816 NSW Governor Lachlan Macquarie sanctioned the massacre of Dharawal men, women and children because he felt compelled to “inflict terrible and exemplary punishments” upon Indigenous people living on the outskirts of Sydney.
On 17, April 1816, 14 Aboriginal people were reportedly killed but the real number of dead was estimated to be more.
Winga Myamly Reconciliation Group will host the public commemoration event on Sunday, April 15 at Cataract Dam Picnic Area from 11am to 3.30pm.
Group coordinator Sister Kerry MacDermott said everyone was welcome to attend.
“The Appin Massacre is a very significant and important anniversary to remember,” Sister Kerry MacDermott said.
“Walking side by side on the journey of healing and reconcilitation can bring us closer together as a nation and enable us to be friends.
“Our Aboriginal community has lost several Aboriginal elders and community members since our last memorial and it would be a great sign of respect and solidarity to come and pay respects on the day.
“It is also an opportunity for the wider community to get to know the Aboriginal community better.”
There will be a sausage sizzle from 11am followed by the ceremony from 1pm.
There will be a welcome to country by Dharawal descendants as well as traditional performers on the didjeridoo by Glen Doyle.
Local dance groups and school students will perform as well.
The Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Council is also continuing its campaign to remember the Appin Massacre.
On April 17 each year, land council executive officer Rebecca Ede is asking everyone to “embrace our lands’ dark history and pay your respects on the same day at the same time each year no matter what you’re doing or where you find yourself”.
“No matter if you are black, white or purple, whether you are at work, a lecture or on a joy, we ask you observe a minute’s silence,” Ms Ede said.
“It is not supposed to be cumbersome.
“The campaign allows the broader community to share in and hear our history even though it is bad so they can have greater knowledge.”
Ms Ede also encourages Aboriginal flags to be raised to half-mast.
Seven schools have become involved in the initiative. They have planted a native tree and students were encouraged to ‘pay it forward’ by doing something nice for someone else.
The memorial ceremony involves a short walk from the picnic area to the ceremony site. Sun protection and water are advised.
Residents can bring their own chairs as seating is limited. The event will go ahead regardless of weather.
Details: Sister Kerry MacDermott on 9605 1838 and Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Council on Facebook