Reconciliation Action Plan launched by Reflections

The NSW Crown land holiday park manager, Reflections Holiday Parks, has launched a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to build meaningful cultural connections with Aboriginal communities on Country at its holiday parks.

Reflections, which manages 43 nature reserves and operates 36 holiday parks on Crown land on behalf of the people of NSW, will support opportunities for cultural expression and celebration while delivering social, cultural, and economic outcomes for Aboriginal communities.

Reflections’ CEO Nick Baker said the RAP will grow cultural awareness with park managers and guests, boost employment and create lasting partnerships with Aboriginal people.

“Each year we welcome 2 million guests from Australia and abroad, and we have the chance to introduce them to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and protect that for future generations,” Mr Baker said.

Reflections’ RAP Sponsor and Executive Manager Corporate Communication Lauren Eyles said the RAP was developed under Reconciliation Australia’s framework and is a public commitment and a whole-of-organisational journey.

“Key aspects of the RAP include cultural training for Reflections staff, participation in local community events and engagement of Aboriginal service providers,” Ms Eyles said.

Reflections’ Aboriginal Engagement Officer and Githabul Bundjalung woman Cheryl Newton is establishing relationships with Traditional Custodians to develop cultural immersion and tourism experiences.

RAP outcomes will include partnerships with Aboriginal communities and Native Title Holders to create commercial and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Ms Newton will capture learnings to help guide other Crown Land Managers to partner with Aboriginal people under a pilot program between Reflections and Crown Lands.  

“Our cultures are rich and deep with Aboriginal histories as is our land, and The Dreaming and our spirit ancestors set out the structures of how we care for it,” Ms Newton said.

“Today we still go by these structures. We still, and always will, nurture this land.”

Reflections is the only holiday park group in NSW that is certified as a social enterprise. It reinvests all profits back into the parks and reserves it manages on behalf of the NSW public. Community is at the centre of our decision-making.

For further information, visit Reconciliation Action Plan.