Two rainbow serpents, the Aboriginal flag and more than 60 Coomba Park locals welcomed visitors to their shores during the annual Free Spirit cruise along Wallis Lake.
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Held in conjunction with the 2019 NAIDOC Week celebrations, the 62 passengers from the local Aboriginal community were the first visitors to step off the vessel and onto the new Coomba Aquatic Club jetty.
Well known elder and former Coomba local Lyn Davis delivered the welcome to country, while Steve Brereton carried out a spirit cleansing smoking ceremony for everyone.
Until the 1840s, Coomba was the original site of an Aboriginal reserve in the Great Lakes.
Guests were treated to lunch provided by Coomba Aquatic Club and Coomba District Progress Association, which have gained an enviable reputation for their barbecuing skills.
During the lunch Uncle Steve had everyone spellbound as he spoke about ancient Aboriginal culture, history and connection to Coomba.
Before getting back on the ferry for the return trip guests were treated to a song led by Aunty Lyn and the newly formed singing group Baraya Wakulda.
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