The Mara Ngali Agreement will use consultation from the Indigenous community to shape Councils Closing the Gap Implementation Plan, which will then be delivered in collaboration with TACCO. In Gomeroi language, Mara Ngali symbolises the two hands of the same body, representing unity, partnership, and shared purpose. Just as hands work together, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a stronger, more equitable future with real, lasting outcomes.

On Friday 9 May, the momentous occasion was celebrated with a signing ceremony held at the Tamworth Regional Botanic Gardens and was attended by local and state representatives, community members and staff of each organisation.

As guests took in the smell of burning eucalyptus and the sounds of clap sticks and traditional song, it was an opportunity to acknowledge the unwavering advocacy and dedication of Elders and previous generations while also celebrating the passion and commitment of our current community leaders.

As we continue to strengthen the relationship between local government and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, we held a Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday 27 May at Tamworth War Memorial Town Hall to commemorate National Reconciliation Week.  

With this year's theme of Bridging Now to Next, the ceremony shared the importance of reflecting the ongoing connection between past, present and future and that the relationships we've formed and the work we put in to Reconciliation and Closing the Gap today, will benefit the Tamworth community of tomorrow.

Tamworth Regional Councillor and proud Gomeroi Man, Marc Sutherland, said Council is committed to supporting all members of the community.

"As a council, we're really aware of what spaces we have influence over, what we can advocate for, and what our role can be in championing the idea of reconciliation with communities," he said.

Read more about the Mara Ngali Partnerships Agreement ceremony here - trcnews.au/MaraNgali