During National Reconciliation Week, the Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council celebrated two local leaders, Ernest Kulauzovic and Nicole Bain, for their outstanding efforts and allyship in fostering reconciliation and community spirit in Liverpool, NSW.
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a significant time for Australians to engage with our shared histories, cultures and achievements and consider how each of us can contribute to respect, recognition and connection with First Nations.
Ernest Kulauzovic, Belgravia Leisure’s Community Engagement Manager for South-West and Western Sydney, has played a key role in Liverpool. Thanks to his support, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the local council was established, allowing venues to be provided at no cost for Reconciliation and NAIDOC events.
As well as this, the combined efforts of Belgravia Leisure’s Liverpool team, Ernest and Council have significantly increased community engagement. Attendance at last year’s Reconciliation Week at Whitlam Leisure Centre doubled from 250 to more than 500 attendees this year. They aim to continue this growth in the coming years through increased stakeholder engagement and funding.
The Belgravia Foundation fully funds year-round free learn-to-swim classes for First Nations children and teens, a program Ernest has worked tirelessly on in collaboration with Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council. Currently, 40+ registered children at Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre and 25 registered children at Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre benefit from this program.
Nicole Bain, Aquatics Services Manager at Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre has played a crucial role in supporting the Learn to Swim Program.
Nicole’s dedication has ensured that First Nations children have access to free swimming lessons, fostering water safety and building confidence in young participants.
Pictured: Dr Melissa Williams, Chief Executive Officer at Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council
with Ernest, Nicole and Aunty Gail Smith, Board of Directors at Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council
Ernest expressed the importance of these initiatives, highlighting the collaborative efforts to support more First Nations kids across South-West and Western Sydney. “I’m honoured to have received this recognition, which wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my team and Belgravia Leisure.
“Belgravia Leisure and Belgravia Foundation’s support for First Nations children, our partnership with the Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council and events like Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week have been essential in building connections and promoting cultural understanding in our communities.
“I’m proud to have supported these initiatives in the Liverpool area that are vital in creating opportunities and providing support for First Nations, ensuring they have access to important programs and services,” Ernest concluded.
This year’s NRW theme, “Now More Than Ever,” provided an opportunity for Belgravia Leisure to continue its approach and effort to welcome, support and include all people in everything it offers the communities in which it operates – facilities, programs, services and employment – so that no one misses out.
Belgravia Leisure is committed to fostering inclusive communities where everyone can participate in facilities, programs, services and employment. This commitment ensures that no one is left behind, aligning with the core values of respect, recognition and reconciliation. To learn more, read our Social Inclusion Statement.
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