Armadale to host Welcome Baby to Country event

The City of Armadale in Western Australia will host its fourth Welcome Baby to Country event on 25 October 2024.

An initiative driven by local Elder Aunty Viv, Welcome Baby to Country will be held at the Champion Centre, and features a traditional welcome and smoking ceremony for babies aged from birth to two years, with the goal of providing a positive cultural start to life. 

Open to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal families, the inclusive event aims to promote inclusivity and reconciliation, and forms part of the Early Years Partnership Community Plan, focusing on child development through a cultural lens. 

The ceremony, traditionally done on Country, involves placing baby within the smoke to cleanse and connect them to community and country.

Each registered child receives a commemorative certificate with baby’s name and the opportunity for a professional photograph. Approximately 45 babies are expected to attend, with registrations capped at 80.

The event also features participation from 12-15 relevant service providers, including counselling groups, dad groups, maternal and child health organisations and local Aboriginal businesses.

Aunty Viv hopes the program will continue to support young families’ connection to culture, with the event being designed to sustain Aboriginal cultural practices in a modern metro setting.

Register or learn more about the event here.