Uncle Bobby Nicholls speaks with passion and pride.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
They came. They listened. They remembered and reflected.
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Before the city stirred on Friday morning, a quiet crowd gathered at the William Cooper Memorial Statue for Shepparton’s annual Apology Breakfast.
The event on February 13 marked the 18th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations, first delivered in 2008 — a moment widely regarded as a milestone in the journey towards reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Each year, communities across the country pause to reflect on its significance.
In Shepparton, the breakfast was hosted by the Shepparton Region Reconciliation Group and featured a smoking ceremony, light breakfast and coffee, live music and a minute’s silence.
Local primary and secondary schools were well represented, with ASHE students serving as emcees, while students from All Saints Anglican College delivered a reading of the National Apology.
Community members also turned out in strong support — honouring the past, acknowledging the pain carried by the Stolen Generations and reaffirming their shared commitment to reconciliation.
News photographer Rechelle Zammit captured the morning as it unfolded.
Community leaders Felicia Dean, Uncle Bobby Nicholls and Aunty Pam Pederson.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Shepparton Region Reconciliation Group co-convenor Dierdre Robertson addresses the crowd.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Wilfred Stewart plays the didgeridoo.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
All Saints Anglican School student Chloe Raleigh reads the National Apology.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
ASHE students Seianna Cooke and Siona Solomon acted as emcees for the event.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Among those gracing the stage was Dr Neil Morris.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Aunty Pam Pederson with Acting Senior Sergeant Scott Hamilton, Acting Inspector Brad Fisher, Senior Sergeant Peter Warden, Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer Eric Egan, Multicultural Liaison Officer Leigh Johnson and Leading Senior Constable Brooke Alexander.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Uncle Les Cowan with his granddaughter Montannah Cowan and their miniature Chihuahua, Gucci.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
ASHE students Kaidan McGee, Cooper Wade and Deon Edwards.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Representatives from local primary and secondary schools attended the event.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
The Apology Breakfast drew the masses to the William Cooper Memorial Statue.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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