Aunty Pat Ockwell Tells her Story... This was a book launch like no other... Elders, dignitaries, families and lifelong friends filled Abbotsford Convent to hear this amazing story from the eldest member of the Wurundjeri nation Aunty Pat. MC for the day via zoom was Andrew Gardiner who was entertaining and professional. Welcome to country was as always a powerful and moving experience by Aunty Di Kerr who also paid tribute to Aunty Pat. Messages from Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp and others showed the depth of respect all have for this strong, tireless fighter for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Senior Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Pat Ockwell has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and has much advice and wisdom to pass on to her people. She is highly respected and adored by many in her community for her dedication and hard work for her people plus its been a two and a half years journey, including 2020 with all its special challenges to finish her book.
It's been a great honour and privilege for Pauline Mackinnon to be invited by Aunty Pat to work with her to publish this book, and are really thrilled that it is now completed. The very beautiful work that resulted is both significant, and considered by some as important reading for all Australians.
A little bit about the book: The book is a beautiful hardcover publication, with over 250 pages, including 200 photos in both colour, and black and white. The book details Aunty Pat's life with her family, and also covers her extensive work in the community.
'This is one woman’s story that is also the story of her people. Aunty Pat Ockwell tells of her family’s struggles, and their determination to keep their culture strong. Aunt says it’s ‘…what I’ve been through and what lots of our people have been through.’ This book calls on the young ones to hear the words of their Elders, and to always stay strong and be proud of their ancient culture and identity. Through the lens of her life, the reader enters a much larger story: the story of the continuing impact on First Nation people by the arrival of others in their country. Against the backdrop of invasion and racism, this book brings home these realities in a very beautiful and personal story.'
It was an honour for all who attended today to hear Aunty Pat story and why it was important to write it…. 3KND were there broadcasting live across the “Kulin Nation”, Australia and the World. 3KND keeping community connected.