Keep 26 January as Australia Day. It commemorates the coming of the British to the land that eventually took the name Australia and embraces the First People who populated the land more than 60,000 years ago, well as all the people from all over the world who have made Australia their home.
I believe we should also hold another celebration which embraces the concept of a Treaty, or different treaties for the different needs of Aboriginal people in different regions. This would enable the Aboriginal people to show their pride in their heritage and culture and their important place in the make up of our wonderful country. This celebration should come together as Treaty Day.
Two days, and yes, that would mean two public holidays and two chances for the whole Australian nation to embrace our histories and to show the world that we all stand together.
But first we have to get this Treaty business worked out. There has been plenty of talk. What about some action?
Jan Morris
West Tamworth
