The Smoking Ceremony

Today I joined a Walk for Reconciliation with our local Yorta Yorta people. We met at the Queen's Gardens where we participated in the smoking ceremony prior to setting off.  The smoke is created by burning bunches of eucalyptus leaves.  Once the smoke has built up each participant is invited to stand in the smoke to ward of evil spirits and and to keep them safe on their journey. You can see this in my first extra. We then walked to Victoria Lake, arriving in time for the "Welcome to Country" performed by one of the Elders.  The welcome ceremony opened this amazing multicultural festival, where aboriginal, european, middle eastern communities shared their dance, music, culture and food.  I have added extra extras (I'll have used them all up soon, but this has to be seen) of a young group of indigenous dancers.  Firstly they are dancing around the fire, then head out hunting for kangaroo.  One is finally spotted and slain with a boomerang. In the background you will glimpse the range of ethnic food on offer.  Shepparton has a really diverse range of ethnicities and when you see this food you can't help but acknowledge what their presence has added to our lives. I have little experience in street photography, but was glad to capture what I have. All this in 35C heat!