Pro bono I Gadens Intern News – June 2017

Lockhart River Charity Gala

The Indigenous Interns volunteered to assist at the inaugural Lockhart River Charity Gala in May. All proceeds from the art auction were raised for the Puuya Foundation and the Lockhart River community. The event was incredibly rewarding and inspiring as we witnessed the generosity of bidders and appreciated the beauty of the artworks. 

QUT Indigenous Reconciliation Breakfast

The QUT Law Society held a Reconciliation Breakfast which reflected two significant anniversaries in Australia’s Reconciliation journey: 50 years since the 1967 referendum; and 25 years since the historic Mabo decision. The Honourable Justice Philippines was the keynote speaker at the event. I had the opportunity to MC for the event – Kathryn Dorante. 

National Indigenous Youth Parliament 2017

I had the privilege of being selected to participate in the National Indigenous Youth Parliament program for 2017 and represent the Torres Strait Islands. This was a week-long program held in Canberra and involved meeting Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten and Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove. I was also provided with the opportunity to visit the Tent Embassy and meet a number of Elders. The centrepiece of the program was the opportunity to debate Bills in Old Parliament House and present an adjournment debate. I was fortunate enough to meet 49 other likeminded young Indigenous people who all share a passion for social justice and are motivated to see more equality and equity for Indigenous people. 

Gadens Reconciliation Week Luncheon 

The Indigenous Interns had the pleasure of organising the Reconciliation Week luncheon at Gadens’ Brisbane office this year. We were fortunate enough to have Maroochy Barambah deliver the Welcome to Country, and Barrister-at-law Joshua Creamer and Magistrate Jacqui Payne make speeches. Torres Strait Island Mabuyag Dancers also made a special performance. It was particularly rewarding to see so many people involved and celebrate Reconciliation Week. Special thanks are in order for Brad Marland, Tali Mundy, Mitchell Murphy, the other interns and front of house for their dedication.