Marmungan Rock Ceremony
Published on 21 May 2024
The Rural City of Wangaratta proudly supports this year’s Marmungun Rock ceremony hosted by the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network. This year’s ceremony will take place on National Sorry Day, Sunday 26 May on the eve of Reconciliation Week, 27 May-3 June.
Each year the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, through the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network, recognise the Wangaratta Citizen of the Year by including their carved handprint on the Marmungun Rock in Apex Park. These carved handprints are an honour and enduring tribute to outstanding individuals in our community who demonstrate the qualities of an Indigenous Elder – community service, integrity, and wisdom.
Marmungun means ‘of this group’ or ‘of this area’ – the closest traditional Bpangerang word for community. The Marmungun Rock concept was conceived by respected Elder Wally Cooper whose pride in his Aboriginal heritage and message of hope for the future inspired many. The Rural City of Wangaratta commends the community members behind the ceremony for initiating such a powerful gesture of reconciliation that is creating a lifelong legacy for our community.
This year, Ruth Kneebone’s carved handprint will be revealed as the newest addition on the Marmungun Rock. Ruth received the 2024 Citizen of the Year in the Rural City of Wangaratta Australia Day Awards in January after being nominated for her extensive work in local community groups and organisations.
Ruth is a dedicated volunteer and active community member and has contributed to multiple organisations that benefit sport, culture, and the welfare of others. Ruth was awarded for her lifetime of service to the Wangaratta community.
The ceremony will include an Acknowledgement of Country, traditional performances, the unveiling Ruth Kneebone’s handprint, and will conclude with a BBQ. This event is open to everyone in the community.
Additional information - event details
Date and time: 11am Sunday 26 May
Location: Marmungun Rock in Apex Park, Parfitt Road, Wangaratta 3677
Image: Uncle Chris Thorne and Jesse Cooper - pictured at last year’s Marmangun Rock Ceremony - have carved Ruth Kneebone’s handprint this year.