South Australia communities mark Reconciliation Week with local events

This year’s theme, Bridging Now to the Next, invites all Australians to reflect on how the past continues to shape our present—and how we can walk together toward a better, shared future.

Across South Australia, local councils are hosting events that honour culture, encourage dialogue, and foster connection. Check with your local council to see what’s happening near you.

City of Prospect and City of Charles Sturt

10:00am – 11:30am | Saturday 24 May 2025

Bridges to Reconciliation Community BBQ is a free event featuring a BBQ breakfast, coffee, cultural activities and art.

Hear from Kaurna Elder Uncle Tamaru, take part in a community silk painting activity with Adnyamathanha, Narungga and Yarluyandi artist Temaana Sanderson-Bromley, and enjoy a native plant giveaway and art installation. Bookings are recommended for this popular event.

Learn more at City of Prospect and City of Charles Sturt

City of Salisbury

10:00am - 11:00am | Monday 26 May 2025

To mark Sorry Day, you're invited to hear from Dwayne Coulthard, a proud Adnyamathanha and Kokatha man and signatory to the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Dwayne will share personal reflections on reconciliation and the road ahead.

The free event will also feature a Welcome to Country and Sorry Day address by Uncle Frank Wanganeen, a respected Elder and community leader.

Learn more at City of Salisbury

Adelaide Hills Council

6:30 – 7:30pm l Tuesday 27 May 2025

Join David Booth as he shares old dreamtime stories at a storytelling and a cultural talk at Norton Summit. This is a family friendly event.

Adelaide Hills Council will also host a traditional basket weaving workshop with Marra Dreaming.

Learn more at Adelaide Hills Council

City of Onkaparinga

10:00am – 2:00pm | Tuesday 27 May 2025

Explore the richness and beauty of the Kaurna language in this free, hour-long introductory workshop led by expert Kaurna language teachers Kira Bain and Labhaoise Upton. Learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and basic grammar, and gain insight into the cultural significance of the language for the living Kaurna people today.

This session is suitable for adults and educators, and includes written exercises, as well as speaking and listening activities.

Learn more at City of Onkaparinga

City of Victor Harbor

2:00pm – 3:00pm | Thursday 29 May 2025

Join proud Ngarrindjeri woman, artist, and language teacher Kyla McHughes for a free, family-friendly session of storytelling and shared knowledge. Together, we’ll reflect on our connection with spirit friends—native flora and fauna—and explore how we care for them and how they guide and protect us in return.

Learn more at City of Victor Harbor

City of Marion

1:00pm – 4:00pm | Saturday 31 May 2025

Now in its fourth year, this free community event brings people together to celebrate culture, reflect on reconciliation, and enjoy a rich program of activities.

Experience a Smoking Ceremony, Traditional Dance and Yidaki performance, roaming native animals, a vibrant marketplace, and delicious food and drink offerings.

Learn more at City of Marion

City of Tea Tree Gully

12:30pm – 3:00pm | Tuesday 3 June 2025

Explore the richness and beauty of the Kaurna language in this free, hour-long introductory workshop led by expert Kaurna language teachers Kira Bain and Labhaoise Upton. Learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and basic grammar, and gain insight into the cultural significance of the language for the living Kaurna people today.

This session is suitable for adults and educators, and includes written exercises, as well as speaking and listening activities.

Learn more at City of Tea Tree Gully

Image credit: City of Mitcham.