NSW Trustee and Guardian marked National Reconciliation Week 2026 by bringing staff together across our Newcastle and Parramatta offices to reflect, learn and engage with this year's theme, "All In".
National Reconciliation Week, held annually from 27 May to 3 June, is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to reconciliation.
As part of our Reconciliation Week activities, staff attended screenings of ‘The Last Daughter’, the powerful documentary and memoir by Aunty Brenda Matthews, a proud Aboriginal woman and member of the Stolen Generations.
The film tells Aunty Brenda's remarkable story of being raised by a loving white foster family, her sudden return to her birth family who had longed for her, and her decades-long journey to uncover the truth of her past, bring both parts of her life together and begin healing.
Following the screening at our Parramatta Justice Precinct office, attendees heard directly from Aunty Brenda, who generously shared her experiences and reflections during a candid question-and-answer session. Her story prompted meaningful conversations about identity, belonging, resilience, empathy and the ongoing impacts of past government policies on Aboriginal families and communities.
The Parramatta event also featured a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country by our Aboriginal Advocacy Officer, Calita Murray, and a selection of native-inspired refreshments celebrating the unique flavours of Australia's First Nations peoples.
Staff in Newcastle gathered for a screening of ‘The Last Daughter’ on National Sorry Day, which was opened with a Welcome to Country by local Elder and respected community leader Aunty Cheryl Yaramun-Smith.
Both events provided an opportunity for staff to deepen their understanding of Australia's history, reflect on the importance of reconciliation and consider how we can all play a role in building stronger relationships and a more inclusive future.
NSW Trustee and Guardian extends its sincere thanks to Aunty Brenda Matthews, Aunty Cheryl Yaramun-Smith and everyone who contributed to this year's Reconciliation Week activities.
We acknowledge the ongoing strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including Stolen Generations survivors, their descendants and their communities.
‘The Last Daughter’ can be viewed on many streaming services including ABC iview – The Last Daughter.