Katanning Health Service honours National Sorry Day with Quandong tree planting ceremony

National Sorry Day was honoured this year at Katanning Health Service with the planting of a quandong tree in the hospital gardens.

The quandong (Santalum acuminatum) bears fruit known as quandongs or native peaches that are often used as bush tucker.

Over 30 staff members from different departments attending the ceremony and afternoon tea, where Katanning Aboriginal Health Officer Kayleen Pickett spoke about the importance of National Sorry Day and the awareness of the past in promoting reconciliation.

At the afternoon tea, local Noongar Elder and Katanning aged care resident Gabrielle Hansen spoke about her life experiences, explaining the trauma that Aboriginal children, including herself, endured growing up after being forcibly removed from their families.  

Gabrielle also discussed healing and working together towards a better future.

In a touching moment, staff were asked to write down a pledge of one thing they can do to improve reconciliation, with these pledges now proudly on display around the hospital.

District Director Matt Wells extended sincere thanks to the entire Katanning Health Service team and visitors who attended the ceremony and participated in the day’s events.