Timber Tots Child Care acknowledges the Traditional custodians of the Yuggera land on which our building stands and our continuing connection to this land, the waterways, sky and the community. We acknowledge the ancestors that have walked this country and their special place in our nations historical, cultural, and linguistic identity. Timber Tots Child Care also pays respect to all Elders – past present and future.

At Timber Tots we acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first peoples of Australia, the original custodians of this land. We recognize the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language, culture, and contemporary issues throughout Australia and aim to focus on continuing to learn and explore the Yuggera tribe history, language, culture and the impact we have on positively shaping and contributing to its future.

Timber Tots is committed to the ongoing learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and building respectful relationships with them and their communities. Through this commitment we hope to facilitate change in the next generation by developing awareness, knowledge, and respect in the early years.

 

The early years is a vital time to begin the Reconciliation journey with our children and families. By educating and involving our children, families and Educators we will be able to have a deeper understanding and make valuable contributions to our country and its future.

Reconciliation is understood to be a process not a destination – a process which acknowledges the past, understands the present and embraces a future which is based on the co-existence of rights. We value and recognize the work and teachings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities around Australia.

At Timber Tots we are implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan. A three year ‘living document’ plan which is designed to grow and change over time based on knowledge, actions, and reflections. The Reconciliation Action Plan will be developed with the input of Educators, parents, Centre Management and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders via meetings, discussions, surveys and Professional Development courses. Each year we will reflect on the achievements made and adjust any future goals and actions to make sure these are still valuable and achievable.

The actions stated in our Reconciliation Action Plan are the foundations to build on our knowledge and to commit to the future years of improvement and development. Its main purpose is to focus on building strong relationships, increase mutual respect and sustainable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout all aspects and learning areas of our Centre. Our goals aim to foster a higher level of knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait histories, cultures and contributions.

Since our opening day in October last year, our Educators have been working hard to build on our knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and incorporating this knowledge into our daily programs. We are proud to have joined the Narragunnawali journey to formally show our interest and commitment to becoming culturally competent in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait culture.