Royal Far West gifted Coolamons to celebrate connection and culture

On December 5 2024, as part of the organisation’s 100-year anniversary celebrations, Royal Far West was deeply honoured to receive four beautifully crafted coolamons, a gift symbolising the organisation’s commitment to healing, hope, and connection with First Nations communities.

The coolamons were created by Peter Mackay, a proud Ngiyambaa man of the Wayilwan nation, whose deep connection to Royal Far West spans generations. Peter’s ancestors were part of the communities supported by Royal Far West, and he shared stories of how his family, like so many others, benefited from the care provided by Royal Far West.

For Peter, crafting these coolamons was a deeply personal journey. He explained that traditional techniques are at the heart of this sacred process. Coolamons are crafted by carefully cutting a section of wood from the tree, ensuring the tree itself remains unharmed so it can continue to thrive. After the coolamon is removed, the tree is covered in mud to protect it and help it heal, reflecting the deep respect for nature embedded in this cultural practice.

Each coolamon was wrapped in the stunning Yiran Birrang (Long Journey) artwork by Wiradjuri artist Skye Burton, encapsulating the shared journey of Royal Far West and First Nations communities over the past 100 years.

Traditional smoking ceremony

Before these coolamons begin their journey to the communities served by Royal Far West in 2025, they were blessed in a special Smoking Ceremony held at the Royal Far West Lodge. 

This sacred ritual, led by Aunty Caroline Glass-Patterson, paid respect to his ancestors, his craft, and the cultural stories embedded within the coolamons.

Children, families, and staff from across Royal Far West’s programs—including the Lodge staff, Royal Far West School, Child & Family, and RAP engagement teams—gathered for this moving ceremony. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of connection between bush and beach, past and present.

Peter reflected on the importance of keeping culture alive and revitalising traditions that had been silenced in previous generations. He shared how his grandmother, like many others, was too afraid to speak their language or share cultural knowledge due to the fear of persecution. 

These coolamons stand as a symbol of Royal Far West’s enduring commitment to walking alongside First Nations communities, learning from their strength and wisdom, and working together to create a brighter future.

As they travel to the communities supported by Royal Far West in 2025, the coolamons will carry not only their cultural significance but also the shared stories and connections that have shaped our journey over the last 100 years.

“We are honoured to continue walking this journey with our First Nations communities. Together, we can create lasting change for regional families and communities,” a spokesperson said.

Learn more about Royal Far West’s programs and our 100-year legacy of care. Learn more about Royal Far West here.