The South Sydney Herald fundraiser cruise on October 27 sailed through Circular Quay (Warrung), taking in sights of cultural and historical significance including Tjubooguuli (Opera House and Bennelong Point), Bayingo (Garden Island), Maten-Wanyay (Fort Dennison), Wokonmaguuli (Farm Cove), Yurong (Mrs Macquarie’s Point) and Woolloomooloo (“resting place of the dead”).
The event was hosted by Tribal Warrior, a Redfern-based not-for-profit dedicated to creating maritime and other industry employment pathways for the Indigenous community.
“We last did this 11 years ago. And again, the experience aboard the Mari Nawi (‘Big Canoe’) with the crew of Tribal Warrior was amazing,” said the Rev. Andrew Collis, managing editor of the SSH.
“Congratulations to CEO Shane Phillips and all at Tribal Warrior for 25 years of training and mentoring. And thanks to our expert guides, TJ, Gus, Rhonda, Matt and Brock.”
Among the attendees was Chris Duckett, a Widjabul, Dunghutti and Yuin man, who began his maritime career with Tribal Warrior in the early 2000s.
“Tribal Warrior got me into work,” he said.
“I wanted to get back in the industry because my uncles were at sea, my father was and my great uncle too. So, I had it in the family, I knew what the work was about.”
Now teaching Aboriginal deck hands at Eora TAFE, Chris advocates for greater accessibility in maritime employment for former inmates, who often face challenges in obtaining the necessary security clearance for jobs.
“A lot of our boys and girls come from troubled backgrounds. They finish their qualifications at TAFE, but when they’re going to get their security checks done, they’re not allowed to get the maritime security card, which is the hard thing,” he said.
“We know the boys messed up. They’ve done their time. Let’s help them. Because, if they don’t get work, they’re going to go back. A lot of our boys and girls want more and need more.”
The vessel docked at Billong-olola (Clark Island, Sydney Harbour National Park) for late afternoon cultural education and fun, traditional dance and song (led by Blake, Brock and Keara), and a short walking tour.
Andrew, Louisa Dyce (assistant editor) and Lyn Turnbull (news editor) led a trivia session with prizes from Better Read Than Dead bookstore, Hum On King record shop, Sunlite Mitre 10, the Dendy Newtown, and Palace Central Park.
The mood was easy-going and inclusive, with volunteers and supporters sharing conversation and commitment to local community.
“The Mari Nawi brought us back to Circular Quay as the light turned from soft blue to pink, shades of purple and orange,” Andrew said. “The sun cast a warm glow. The breeze carried sounds and scents of the sea.”
Big thanks to John Lanzky and Ron Harrison for cooking and serving dinner – sizzling sausages and crisp falafel, fresh bread rolls, juicy apples, mandarins and bananas. And to Anthony and Cecil at Club Redfern, Con and Abu at Redfern Woolworths; Lee, Graeme, Luke, Mark, Michelle and everyone who purchased or donated a ticket.
For more information on Tribal Warrior cruises, visit https://www.tribalwarrior.org/.
