Wominjeka!

A Welcome to Country from Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung, the Traditional Owners of the land

At WD2026, we will begin by honoring where we stand, on the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Peoples of the Kulin Nation. Led by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Peoples, a Welcome to Country is offered by First Nations Elders as an acknowledgement that we meet on unceded land, inviting us to move with humility and respect. 

As guests in Narrm, we must always offer an Acknowledgement of Country as recognition that we are guests in their country. Here is an example of how to offer an Acknowledgement of Country.

“I would like to acknowledge Wurundjeri, the First Nations people and the Traditional Owners of the land, on which we’re gathered today.

“As a [speaker’s profession, passion, or family status] from [speaker’s country, state or town (original names where possible)], I’m grateful to be here to learn and share in the spirit of congeniality.”

This practice is a step into a relationship with the land, its people, and their living stories. And it is where change begins.