A sunrise ceremony to learn, share and honour the resilience of the worlds oldest continuing culture. A family friendly community event presented by Bayside Council in the Rockdale area.
Ongoing activity
Rockdale NSW 2216, Australia
Wuri Rise for Resilience invites families to gather at dawn to honour Indigenous culture and reflect on resilience together. This community event blends a peaceful sunrise ceremony with storytelling and shared learning, creating a calm, reflective start to the day for parents and school aged children. It is ideal for families who want a meaningful, educational outing that is also relaxed and outdoors.
Expect a gentle, respectful sunrise ceremony led by community elders and local cultural practitioners that introduces children to important Indigenous stories and traditions. The focus is on connection, storytelling and simple participatory activities that are accessible to all ages, making it a family friendly cultural event.
Activities will be low key and suitable for middle aged parents bringing school aged children, with opportunities to listen, observe and ask age appropriate questions about Indigenous culture and resilience. There will be moments of shared silence and guided reflection as well as short, engaging presentations tailored for kids to hold interest.
Plan for an outdoor setting at dawn where you can breathe fresh air and watch the sunrise together, giving your family a memorable cultural experience. The session is community focused and educational, emphasising cultural respect, Indigenous heritage, and local community connection.
This event is intended as a short ceremony rather than a long workshop, so families can attend with minimal planning and still enjoy a rich cultural experience. It will include brief welcome remarks, storytelling, and a simple participatory element suitable for children from early school years upwards.
Children are encouraged to come with curiosity and parents are encouraged to use the event as an opportunity to start conversations about Indigenous history and resilience. The format is accessible, with no specialist equipment required, keeping it easy for busy parents to include in a weekend or holiday morning routine.
The ceremony encourages respectful listening and mindful participation, providing a calm but meaningful way for families to connect with Indigenous culture and community. This approach helps children learn about cultural heritage while enjoying the natural beauty of the Bayside coastline at sunrise.
The event is hosted within the Bayside Council area in the Rockdale locality and will take place outdoors at a waterfront or foreshore site. Exact meeting point details will be provided by Bayside Council closer to the event date, so families should check event updates on the council website or contact the council email for specifics.
Accessibility is a priority and organisers will aim to choose a location with reasonable pedestrian access and nearby parking. Parents with strollers or mobility needs should still enquire ahead of time to confirm the best arrival points and any accessibility provisions.
Bring warm layers, a blanket or low foldable seating, and comfortable shoes for short walks on sand or grass. The event is held at sunrise so expect cooler temperatures and plan accordingly for children and adults to stay comfortable while watching the dawn.
This is a community cultural event focused on respect for Indigenous culture and heritage, so families are asked to listen and follow guidance from event leaders and elders. Photography may be permitted but attendees should be mindful and follow any requests regarding images or recordings to respect cultural protocols.
As the ceremony happens at dawn outdoors, weather and safety are considered; parents should supervise children at all times near water or natural terrain. Plan travel and arrival times carefully so your family can be settled before the ceremony begins and enjoy the full experience.
The event is designed to be family friendly and suitable for school aged children, but younger children are welcome if accompanied by adults who can support expected behaviours like quiet listening and guided participation. If you have mobility or access questions, contact the council ahead of time to check arrangements.
Details about bookings and any restrictions will be listed by Bayside Council on the event page; many cultural community ceremonies are free but some activities may request registration for planning purposes. Parents should check for RSVP requirements to secure family spaces and receive location updates.
If booking is required, provide participant numbers and any accessibility needs so organisers can accommodate your family; this helps with planning and ensures a smooth start to the sunrise ceremony. Keep an eye on Bayside Council communications for any updates or last minute changes due to weather.
For practical planning, bring small essentials like water, snacks for younger children, and a mobile phone for last minute messages. The likely cost is free for community participation, but check the official event listing or contact the council email to confirm and to register if necessary.
