NSW ALT Languages Gathering

First Languages Australia was delighted to be invited to attend the 2025 NSW Aboriginal Languages Trust event in February. The NSW Aboriginal Languages Gathering on Wonnarua Country carried the theme “Let our voices fly” to celebrate the power and resilience of Aboriginal languages and the unseen work of communities and was grouped around the ideas of Connect, Speak and Fly. Delegates were welcomed to Country by Aunty Sharon Edgar-Jones (via video) and Tammy Hunt.

The event included a number of keynote presentations, panel discussions and breakout sessions, including skills-based workshops. Other activities included a Corroborree, a food market night with live music in language, and an awards night paying tribute to language leaders young and old.

Our committee member, Geoff Anderson, and staff members Annalee Little, Kaleesha Morris, Jessica Tapp and Suzy Moffitt, hosted an exhibition stall talking to attendees about FLA’s work, resources, projects, and upcoming community visits and consultation. FLA staff member, Philip Winzer, took part in a keynote address and panel discussion in their role as Chairperson of the Guwaagi Gamangi Ngurrambaa Aboriginal Corporation. LPP independent experts, Gulwanyang Moran, Leitha Assan and Daryn McKenny also took part in activities on behalf of their respective organisations.

Attendees were interested in FLA’s resources many of which are available online and can be downloaded. If you are interested in a printed copy of some of these please email contact@firstlanguages.org.au to discuss ordering and shipping.

To see more pictures, videos and information about the 2025 event, head to the NSW Aboriginal Language Trust’s website and social media accounts.

Pic credits: NSW Aboriginal Languages Trust; First Languages Australia staff and committee.