Mourning in the Morning
7.30am — 8.45am
Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama
26 January means different things to different people. To some, it is ‘Australia Day’ and a time for celebration. But for others – including many First Nations people – the date is difficult, challenging and a source of extreme grief and sorrow.
The Australia Day Council of South Australia (ADCSA) considers the date a time for reflection and mature, respectful conversation, and is proud each year to host Mourning in the Morning in Adelaide.
This First Nations-led, family-friendly event offers an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share their perspectives on history and hopes and aspirations for the future. And it enables non-Indigenous allies and supporters of reconciliation – old and new friends – to show their support, appreciation and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and issues.
Mourning in the Morning 2025 will have a focus on First Nations languages.
Ever since the first sunrise more than 65,000 years ago, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have nurtured and been the knowledge holders for their traditional lands ‘Country’. They use ancient words to express, describe and honour Country. And it speaks through them.
First Nations languages should be valued, respected and cherished, yet tragically today many are under serious threat. Urgent action is needed to document, revive, strengthen and protect them. At Mourning in the Morning, hear languages spoken and sung, and learn about their regenerative power, how they better connect us all with ‘place’, and their role in a better, more compelling and inclusive ‘national story’.
Mourning in the Morning 2025 highlights will include:
A Welcome to Kaurna Country
Keynote speaker Yankunytjatjara woman, climate justice campaigner, and senior Aboriginal language expert Karina Lester
Music, dance, storytelling
Interactive activities
A Smoking Ceremony conducted by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner (and everyone is invited to join in)
Bring a hat and sunscreen, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. Some seating will be provided. Food and drink vendors will be on site,
AusLights on the River
5.00pm — 11.00pm
Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama
Aus Lights on the River will be a dynamic FREE program of events that reminds us we are all part of the story. The program enables us to reflect on this great land and its people.
The event will showcase Our SA Story through immersive, visually engaging light, vision, and sound installations supported with complimentary children’s activations.
Experience the vibrant Respecting Country Parade, which honours our multicultural communities, reflecting the rich diversity of Australia’s people.
The Official Ceremony will feature live performances from a variety of artists, including a special appearance by John Schumann, The Festival Statesmen, and the Adelaide Youth Orchestra.
Full program of activities will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over the River Torrens.
For full program details head to www.auslights.au
Channel 44 is a proud media partner of the Australia Day Council of South Australia.
