Shannon Barnes from Boomalli has been an invaluable guide on Westhaven’s journey towards a deeper understanding of First Nations culture, perspectives and histories. Through her expertly crafted program, which included information gathering, listening sessions, and cultural learning, we gained a profound appreciation for the importance of customs, culture, and land to First Nations people.

Shannon's ability to create a safe and inclusive space for dialogue, reflection and learning was exceptional. Her insights into the First Nations governance structures of Traditional Owners, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, Community Working Partys,  as well as trusted support services, and how we at Westhaven need to connect into these structures was vital. Under her guidance our Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group developed a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) that is meaningful and sets a foundation for future work on our journey in reconciliation.

Thanks to Shannon's guidance, we have not only gained a broader understanding of First Nations people, we have also been inspired to bring a different language and perspective to our workplace. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with Shannon and highly recommend her services to anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of First Nations ways of being and histories.