On Monday, May 26, Damascus College Ballarat proudly hosted the National Sorry Day Ceremony, an occasion where the three Catholic Colleges of Ballarat united to remember and acknowledge the Stolen Generations of First Nations peoples.

Damascus College welcomed students from St Patrick’s College, Loreto College, along with all First Nation students and their families, Elders, members of the First Nations community and other invited guests.

The National Sorry Day ceremony is held annually as a collaboration between the three Colleges and Damascus College Principal, Mr Steven Mifsud, says it is an important occasion to unite and come together, “Sorry Day is a powerful opportunity for our three colleges to come together in solidarity and to deepen our collective commitment to reconciliation. It is a privilege to share this occasion with First Nations students, their families and community members, and to create a space where truth, learning and respect are at the centre.”

The event commenced with guests gathering outside for a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Macaylah Johnson, followed by a didgeridoo performance by Tristan Harris.

Formal proceedings continued in the John Shannon Centre, including the revealing of the new message stick, designed by First Nations students from St Patrick’s, Loreto College and Damascus College, which represents the coming together of these schools, each contributing their unique perspective and spirit.

Renowned keynote speaker Brenda Matthews addressed the audience, a proud Wiradjuri woman, author, filmmaker and advocate. Brenda is best known for “The Last Daughter”, her powerful personal story that continues to inspire national conversations around truth-telling, healing and unity.

Also sharing her voice at the ceremony was Kyeema Brown, one of Damascus College’s proud First Nations student leaders. Kyeema reflected on the meaning of National Sorry Day,

“Today is about strength. It is about recognising the resilience of our Elders and ancestors, who fought to keep our culture alive. Because of them, we are still here, connected to our families, our stories and our country.”

With an estimate of over 700 guests, the event was a powerful and meaningful gathering and likely one of the largest Sorry Day events happening in Ballarat.

Sarah Boswell – Leader of Marketing & Development