Following protocol, I would like to acknowledge the Traditional owners of the lands that I live on, the Darumbal people, and I pay my respects to my Elders, past, present and emerging.

I’d like to thank the Most Reverend Michael McCarthy, Bishop of Rockhampton and his staff for welcoming and allowing myself to develop the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for the Diocese. I’d also like to acknowledge Caroline Willie, Brad Jarro and Phillippa Johnson for their wonderful support, and to the Elders who kindly gave their blessings on 28 September at the start of the project.

I see Reconciliation as an important process of sharing our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history and identity with the wider community. Through the RAP, we can build stronger relationships and better understanding by recognising and reflecting on past actions, make changes and move forward together.  We can learn, build respect and create opportunities, while practicing our Christian values and teachings.

To date I have been doing some research, had two information sessions, numerous phone calls and attended to emails and a number of meetings. I have a little way to go, but with your support, will finalise the RAP in March 2021.

I am in the process of setting up a working group with representatives from across the Diocese.  As part of our Catholic Diocese, your viewpoints are important and I would like to hear from you or if you would like further information,  I can be contacted on 0429706703 or via email at rap@rok.catholic.net.au. Monday and Tuesdays are my set working days.

Stay safe and be kind to one another.

Deanna Beatson