National Sorry Day – a time for acknowledging the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors.

Nowra’s Annual Sorry Day Event welcomes all members of the community to commemorate and reflect on the part we play in the healing process for our people and nation.

Since its establishment in 2001, the National Sorry Day Bridge Walk has drawn thousands of participants to Nowra, and in recent years, this event has seen over 900 participants. Local Aboriginal Communities, non-Indigenous communities, school children from nearby schools, government, and non-government organisations, and groups from up and down the South Coast, all unite for the three-kilometre walk across the Nowra Bridge to the Bomaderry Homes.

“Each year on Sorry Day, we gather and reflect on the past suffering and continued strength of our Stolen Generations. It is important to acknowledge the trauma they felt and connect as a community.” SCMSAC CEO – Craig Ardler.

he Sorry Day Walk will commence at 9:30 am, gathering at Harry Sawkins Park in Nowra, with the walk beginning at 10 am, leading over the Nowra Bridge to the Bomaderry Homes located at 59 Beinda St, Bomaderry. For those unable to participate in the walk or who prefer not to, assembly is welcomed at Bomaderry Homes. The walk will be followed by stories, dance, music, art, and complimentary food and beverages. The event serves as a tribute to the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors, encouraging contemplation on how each of us can contribute to the healing process of our people and nation.

Event Date: Friday 24th May 2024
Event Venue: 59 Beinda Street Bomaderry
Walking Route: From Harry Sawkins Park to the Bomaderry Homes
Event Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm (assemble 9:30am for walk commencing at 10am)

Walking Route: From Harry Sawkins Park, we will walk over the Nowra Bridge following the walking path under the road to the other side of the highway. We will cross at the pedestrian lights on Bolong Road, continuing onto Brinawarr St and follow the footpath to Beinda St.

Accessibility: The walking path includes two short sets of stairs. For disabled access, follow the path crossing at Illaroo Road and the highway pedestrian crossing, then rejoin the group on Brinawarr St.

Please note: The Police will be on site to assist, but traffic will not be closed off.

Please view the walking path map here: Walking Path Map

Parking
Event parking in Nowra can be challenging, especially at the Bomaderry Homes where parking is limited. We recommend parking on Beinda Road or at Bomaderry Oval. If you’re headed to the Harry Sawkins Park meeting place, all-day car parking is available near the fire station on Bridge Road.

Wet Weather Plan
If it has been a particularly wet week leading up to the event, and the grounds are unsuitable for gathering, we will let you know as early as possible. Our team will monitor the weather closely and decide to cancel if necessary.

We understand that wet weather can be disappointing, but safety is our top priority. If we need to cancel, we will make every effort to inform you as early as possible, so please be sure to follow our Facebook page for the latest information. https://www.facebook.com/scmsac

For more information and media enquiries please contact Chris Ardler: (02) 4448 0200

or email: communications@southcoastams.org.au

Commemorative Sorry Day Flower

Are you planning on attending our Sorry Day Event? We’re inviting all attendees and school groups to get creative and make their unique commemorative flowers as a symbol of support for our Stolen Generations. You can write, colour, or create your flower using the template available on our website or by picking it up from the Jane Ardler Centre.

On Sorry Day, bring your decorated flower mounted on a paddle pop stick, and add it to our commemorative garden. It’s a beautiful way to show support and honour those impacted by the Stolen Generations. We can’t wait to see all the unique flowers and share this meaningful day with you. See you on May 24th!

DOWNLOAD SORRY DAY FLOWER PRINTABLE HERE

Information & Resources

What to know more about Sorry Day? Check out the video from last year’s event here:2023 Sorry Day Video

Or the photos and history of the Sorry Day Bridge Walk here:2023 Sorry Day photos

DOWNLOAD EVENT FLYER

Provided by SCMSAC in partnership with CBACH (Children of Bomaderry Aboriginal Childrens Home), The Children of the Bomaderry Aboriginal Children’s Home Inc.,Waminda, Cullunghutti and Oolong House. Funded by Prime Minister.