IT IS polite to introduce yourself to the neighbours when you are new in town and that is exactly what Wing Commander Andrew Tatnell did when RAAF Base Tindal hosted Jawoyn traditional owners for a welcome to country ceremony on April 13.
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W Cdr Tatnell, who took over as the base’s Senior Australian Defence Force Officer in December 2015, was welcomed by Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation chair Lisa Mumbin, who expressed her gratitude to the service personnel in attendance before dancers from Ngukurr performed the “white cockatoo” and “eagle”.
The greeting was completed with a smoking ceremony, paving a way for the base’s lead chaplain, Squadron Leader Mark Kleemann, to add a blessing to the occasion.
“Life is like a long distance race,” he said.
“How well we go in the race has everything to do with what happens between the start and end.
“Perseverance is a key ingredient which enables participants to overcome obstacles, challenges and changes.”
W Cdr Tatnell said the welcome to country had provided an opportunity for base personnel to strengthen ties with traditional owners and learn more about their unbreakable bond with the land on which Tindal had been built.
He added that the ceremony had also presented a first for several personnel.
“I discovered that many present had never experienced traditional dancing in person,” W Cdr Tatnell said.