"Be prepared to be wrong about everything".
That might prove to be the best advice we'll get given up here.
That gem came from Will who runs the Yirrkala Arts Centre. He says to come to North East Arnhem Land with an open mind, listen, ask questions.
Today was the first day working on my secondment project. It's been like any first day at a new job...but on steroids. There has been so much to absorb, to take in, to challenge me, to make me think and question and wonder.
I'm working with Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation which has four clinics across the region. Before I'd even been in the main office for 15 minutes, I was whisked off to explore the three mainland clinics of Yirrkala, Nuhulumbuy and Gunyagara.
Everyone I met today ‐ the clinic managers, doctors, nurses and other employees ‐ gave so much of their time, warmly, to share their stories, insights, challenges and opportunities.
In the middle of day one, I also had the privilege of attending the first year memorial service for Dr Yunupingu. He was the first Indigenous Australian to be appointed a school principal, of Yirrkala School. He was also named Australian of the Year in 1992. An extremely well respected man.
There were at least a couple of hundred people in attendance. Kids playing and running around, older women cross‐legged in the shade of the trees, men quietly observing the day.
The Australian, Aboriginal and Northern Territory flags were raised to start proceedings, and a couple of prominent, local Aboriginal men gave speeches to share their messages about the importance of education for the future of the community.
A few men, women and children danced to the didgeridoo and clap sticks. With a breeze coming through the trees and the hot sun burning down on us, it felt rather mesmerising, almost meditative.
After speeches, thanks and recognition, the band East Journey played. The lead singer is one of Dr Yunupingu's grandsons. They're about to head off on tour around Australia and it was really awesome to hear them. Here's one of their songs ‐ Song of Arnhem Land.
It didn't seem appropriate to take photos of today. I just have my memories.
I took in so much.
Listening. Asking questions. Remaining open. Feeling so many different things.
And being prepared to be wrong about everything.