The Moree community came together on Wednesday, 19 February, to mark the 60th anniversary of the historic 1965 Freedom Ride, a turning point in the fight for Aboriginal rights in Australia. 

A march through Moree’s CBD led participants to the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC), where Elders who were present during the original protest spoke about their experiences and the impact of the Freedom Rides. The event served as a powerful reminder of the injustices Aboriginal people faced and the changes sparked by their resilience.

The 1965 Freedom Ride, led by Charles Perkins and students from the University of Sydney, exposed racial segregation in regional NSW. In Moree, their protest resulted in the repeal of local by-laws that had barred Aboriginal people from entering the Moree Bore Baths and Moree War Memorial Hall.

“The Freedom Ride had a profound impact on the lives of Aboriginal people in the Shire. Today, we walk together, acknowledging the past and looking towards a brighter future.

“It was an honour to welcome participants to the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, where Elders shared their experiences and reflections on the changes sparked by the Freedom Ride. The event was made even more special by a didgeridoo performance from MAAC team member Wayne Swan on the steps of the MAAC as the march arrived,” said Roh Taylor, Venue Manager at MAAC.

In July 2024, Moree Plains Shire Council formally recognised the harm caused by the 1955 by-laws and committed to commemorating the Freedom Rides annually. 

Elders emphasised how the council’s segregation laws had reinforced discrimination, shaping community attitudes and practices. The Freedom Ride’s national and international media coverage also played a role in building momentum for Australia’s 1967 Referendum, which saw more than 90% of Australians vote in favour of recognising Aboriginal people in the census and giving the federal government power to make laws for them. 

“The effects of the Freedom Ride cannot be underestimated, not just in Moree, but across Australia. Those students stood up for what was right, standing alongside Aboriginal people to demand change,” said Suzanna Pearce, Mayor of Moree Plains Shire Council. 

The Freedom Ride’s legacy continues to shape conversations about equality and reconciliation, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten. 

In the spirit of the Freedom Riders and in alignment with the Moree Plains Shire Council’s commitment to truth-telling and reconciliation, Belgravia Leisure is proud to embrace opportunities to contribute to reconciliation. Through ongoing engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, we strive to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. 

From acknowledging past injustices to creating meaningful employment and training opportunities, Belgravia Leisure remains committed to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre is a powerful example of how our venues can serve as places of learning, healing and unity, ensuring that history is honoured and a brighter, more inclusive future is built together. 

Learn more about our journey and commitments by reading our Commitment to Reconciliation with Launch of Innovate RAP and Social Inclusion Statement.

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