Episode One

In the first episode of our NAIDOC Week podcast series, Safina Stewart, Wuthathi and Mabuiag Island woman and Common Grace’s Storyteller and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Lead, speaks with Elder Uncle Vince Ross.  

Safina had the opportunity to record this conversation with Uncle Vince Ross on the beautiful banks of the Campaspe River. Listen to this incredible conversation as Uncle Vince Ross reflects on his childhood and shares his vision and prayers for the next generation.

 

 

You can also download the episode via this Google Drive link.

A transcript of this conversation can be downloaded here. 

 

Uncle Vince Ross was born at Balranald NSW on the banks of the Murrumbidgee river and his clan group is the Madi-Madi/Wamba-Wamba people. He has had extensive experience in various workplaces and ministries, including twenty years with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress as State Director during which time he established Narana Creations in Geelong. Uncle Vince has also been the Chairperson of The Salvation Army National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Reference Group. Uncle Vince was awarded National NAIDOC Elder of the Year in 2006. 

 

Safina Stewart is Common Grace's Storyteller and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Lead and is a proud Wuthathi and Mabuiag Island woman who grew up cross culturally in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Australia. Safina is passionate about culture, education, the arts, justice and faith. Safina lives with her husband and three children in the Victorian coastal town of Wonthaggi on Bunurong Country


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We would love to hear how you have engaged with this podcast series! Please share your reflections and stories with us at [email protected]. 

We would also love you to share these NAIDOC Week podcast conversations with your community, inviting them into this space of deep listening to consider how we can continue on the journey of healing, friendship and reconciliation together.

Photos from filming with Uncle Vince along the Campaspe River on Dja Dja Wurrung Country. 

Image credit: Safina Stewart

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This podcast episode is shared with deep thanks to Uncle Vince Ross, Safina Stewart, as well as Oka Music for their contribution to our special NAIDOC Week Podcast series. 

🎵Valley of the Kings, from the Sunset Sessions album