Australia Day 2022: Date change not needed, Aboriginal Artist says

Gold Coast Aboriginal artist Goompi Ugerabah says a new tradition is needed to heal the hurt surrounding Australia Day, but it has nothing to do with changing the date.

A Gold Coast Aboriginal artist says a major change is needed to bring the country’s national holiday back to its roots as a time of respect, reflection and celebration.

But he’s not talking about changing the date of Australia Day.

Goompi Ugerabah suggested a dawn service to commemorate Aboriginal people, their contribution and suffering could be a new tradition for January 26.

“That could help with a lot of healing for our people,” Mr Ugerabah said.

“If it’s done in that way - recalling those times and respectfully acknowledging what has happened in the past - it would sit well with a lot more people.

“Whether the date changes, I don’t think it would make a difference. As long as it is commemorated in the right way.”

Aboriginal dancers Goompi Ugerabah and Jay Thompson. Picture Glenn Hampson

Mr Ugerabah said in its current form, Australia Day was “not really a happy day” for him and debates on social media about changing the date made it even more painful.

“I will turn my phone off and hide away from the world for that day,” he said.

“You read comments on social media ... it feels like it becomes a debate instead of a discussion.

“It’s really confronting. It makes me feel hurt.

“It’s such a sensitive topic for Aboriginal people.”

Aboriginal dancer Jay Thompson remembers his ancestors history. Picture Glenn Hampson

Mayor Tom Tate said he was not in favour of changing the date of Australia Day.

“The way I look at it, the numeral of the date doesn’t matter to me. I love Australia,” he said.

Gold Coasters will celebrate the holiday with a bang, with a fireworks display set to light up the Broadwater Parklands tonight.

The council’s family friendly Australia Day event will include an all-nations food truck line-up and kids activities.

Evie Bortoni 7 and Charlotte Maloy 9 getting ready for Gold Coast City Council’s Australia Day celebrations at Broadwater Parklands. Picture Glenn Hampson

“Australia Day is a time for all Australians to reflect, respect and celebrate,” Cr Tate said.

“The best way is to do something Australian, so why not get together with family and friends or go to a local Australia Day event.

“Spend the day by the Broadwater, enjoy a food truck feast then grab a a spot on the lawn for the spectacular fireworks finale.”

The celebration will be held at the Great Lawn, Broadwater Parklands from 4pm to 7.30pm.

Fireworks start at 7.15pm.

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