Stories on Country
HEALING HAPPENS WHEN TRUTHS ARE TOLD
Stories On Country is a community-led truth-telling program grounded in the call for Makarrata in the Uluru Statement from the Heart. It recognises that truth-telling is not a political event but a cultural responsibility. Delivered on Country and led by the local authority, the program creates a structured space for Elders and community members to record histories, lived experience and intergenerational knowledge with professional care and ethical governance.
In the aftermath of the referendum, Stories On Country affirms that the work of truth-telling continues. It begins where it always has, on Country, in community, and contributes to a growing national body of First Nations-led narrative that carries both local authority and national significance.
“Story and Country are inseparable. For tens of thousands of years, story has carried law, connection, grief, resilience and healing. When painful stories are shared on Country, there is healing in that act for mob, and deeper understanding for the wider Australian community.” ERNIE DINGO
Communities can host Stories On Country by inviting Ernie Dingo and the BushTV crew to come and set up on Country for a dedicated storytelling visit.
We work with local leaders and Elders to identify a suitable location and create a culturally safe, alcohol free camp environment for day visits, yarning circles and recorded conversations. The structure is simple and respectful. We gather on Country. We listen. We yarn. We record stories with consent and cultural governance at the centre.
This is not a media drop in. It is a facilitated truth telling process led by community authority.
If your community is interested in hosting Stories On Country, the first step is to book a yarn with Tom about context, readiness and local leadership support. From there, we work together to shape the visit so it reflects your priorities, protocols and aspirations.
Truth-telling begins with conversation.Book a Yarn With Tom