The regional council that voted to ditch the Aboriginal flag has ignited a significant conversation within its community. Bangerang country straddles the Murray River, encompassing parts of north-east Victoria and the southern Riverina in New South Wales.
Council Decision Sparks Local Reaction
One of the largest towns on the New South Wales side is Corowa, a farming community with a population of just over 5,000 people. In November, the local council made a contentious decision to remove the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags from inside council chambers. Furthermore, the council resolved to exclusively fly the Australian flag on all flagpoles throughout the shire.
Compromise Measures and Ceremonial Changes
However, the council did commit to a compromise. It agreed to fly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on 'available flagpoles' during Naidoc and Reconciliation weeks. Additionally, the council proposed significant changes to ceremonial practices. It suggested not allowing welcome to country ceremonies for council events unless they were 'approved by an adopted council resolution'. Instead, the council would rely on an acknowledgment of country, which does not need to be given by a traditional owner.
Guardian Australia's Douglas Smith visited the regional New South Wales town to chat to locals about the move, capturing a range of perspectives on this divisive issue. The decision reflects broader national debates about recognition, representation, and reconciliation in Australia.
