CSIRO STRETCH RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN LAUNCH

PAX: 2000

LOCATION: South Eveleigh Precinct

In a dynamic fusion of culture and community, the CSIRO Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan Launch transformed Sydney’s South Eveleigh, on the lands of the Gadigal People, into a vibrant celebration of connection and commitment.

Stepping into the 20 m x 10 m marquee, invited guests were welcomed to an immersive environment designed to honour and unveil CSIRO’s Stretch RAP alongside a newly commissioned Indigenous artwork. The space balanced ceremony with storytelling, offering a moment of reflection before the day unfolded into broader community engagement.

Beyond the marquee, a sprawling 6,500 m² precinct came alive with colour, movement, and flavour. Local Indigenous businesses lined the outdoor marketplace, showcasing handcrafted wares and sharing stories of enterprise and tradition. Throughout the day, guests sampled native cuisine from food trucks - think emu sausage rolls and bush tomato chutney - while live musicians provided a rhythmic backdrop to the festivities.

Workshops invited the public to explore traditional art techniques in hands on sessions, as children and adults alike learned from Indigenous artists sharing cultural knowledge firsthand. A smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country opened the program with respect and authenticity, setting the tone for a day centred on understanding and connection.

Every detail, from the marquee’s immersive design to the careful orchestration of supplier bump-in across the public space, reflected a commitment to cultural integrity, collaboration, and genuine celebration.