Wujal Wujal Justice Group Elders have organised a healing and homecoming celebration for residents who have returned to the community in June. Photo: Supplied.
With most Wujal Wujal residents expected to be home by June, the community is preparing to begin the healing process after they were devastatingly displaced for more than four months following the ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper flood event in December 2023.
Right in the heart of the community in front of the local store, there will be a smoking ceremony, blessings, traditional dances and activities to welcome residents and service stakeholders back.
Local Elder and Wujal Wujal Justice Group acting chief executive officer Lucille Cassar said Wujal Wujal and the surrounding communities would be celebrating the rebuilding that has occurred together.
“It’s time for everyone to come together and share this healing process, and thank all the parties involved throughout the disaster and recovery to get to where we are today,” Ms Cassar said.
“People sort of want to put that trauma and sadness behind them and look forward to the future as a brighter future.”
Organisers and Elders from the Wujal Wujal Justice Group have based the event around a family fun day.
“There are lots of activities planned to happen during the day,” Ms Cassar said.
“People are coming together and putting resources together to make it a lovely and happy day in community.”
Members of Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council, Cook Shire Council and Douglas Shire Council will join with residents and other stakeholders from 11am-5pm on 7 June to celebrate the community’s homecoming, rebuilding and recovery efforts.
