National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Last year Winslow commissioned artwork that told a story about working here, and how we come together from all walks of life, care and look after each other and work together.
It is also an opportunity to reflect on the First Nations culture and support the celebrations of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Koling wada-ngal (Let Us Walk Together), by Indigenous artist Jenna Oldaker, is an exceptional representation of the Winslow values and also the deepening of Winslow's relationships with our land’s traditional owners, many of whom work across the Group.
Wiradjuri man Curtis Reid is considered and all-rounder by the Winlsow Constructors team in Wodonga, where has worked for a year.
He his handy behind the controls of machinery and says he doesn’t mind getting in a trench to lay pipes either.
He started in construction as a labourer at 17, followed by a plumbing apprenticeship then moved into roles at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) before arriving at Winslow.
Asked what Reconciliation Week means to him, Curtis said it’s about celebrating aboriginal culture of “who we are, where’ve come from”.
“I’m a strong believer in to know where we’re going we’ve got to know where we’ve been,” Curtis said.
The Wiradjuri man says it is his elders who he is thankful for who paved the way for the opportunities he has had.
Curtis’ mother is Wiradjuri, and his father is Kamilaroi, but tradition dictates that he aligns with his mother’s people.
The Wiradjuri is the largest nation on the eastern coast of Australia, with the Kamilaroi the second largest.
“Because of my elders - my uncles and aunties - I wouldn’t have the opportunities I have, and I work where I work because of them,” he said.
“Go back 50 years and most blackfellas couldn’t walk down the street, and had to stay outside pubs,” he said.
“But without them (elders) I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I love telling that to my kids and nieces and nephews.
“We’ve got opportunities beyond measure compared to 50 or 60 years ago.
“Reconciliation Week is just celebrating that culture, how old it is.”