Reconciliation statement
YMCA Aquatic & Event Services Ltd (YAESL) acknowledges the profound connection the Kaurna people have with their land, particularly the Billabongs, which have long been places of sustenance, celebration, and community gathering. Many of these sacred places have evolved into modern community spaces, such as swimming pools which still hold a strong connection.
We acknowledge there was a time that public pools, originally established for health and recreation, were not always accessible to everyone. Segregation, particularly against Indigenous Australians, persisted well into the mid-20th century, as exemplified by the 1965 Freedom Rides protests at the Moree Artesian Baths.
YAESL is committed to ensuring that our spaces are inclusive, honouring the spirit of the Billabongs, creating places where all people can be engaged, activated, and inspired through gathering, celebrating, and connecting. We respect the Kaurna people, their Elders, and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We pledge to continue the path of reconciliation.
The 1967 referendum, which recognised Indigenous Australians as citizens, marked a significant step toward equality, but the journey of reconciliation is ongoing. The 2023 national referendum highlights the continued need to address historical injustices. In this context, swimming pools like the Adelaide Aquatic Centre (AAC) and the SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre (SAALC) play a crucial role in fostering reconciliation, understanding, and unity.
We acknowledge the world’s oldest living culture still exists, and our centre is a welcoming gateway to celebrating Kaurna Culture. The land we walk on and the waters we swim in are our shared link. This is a safe place, where we invite curiosity, joy, and connection, and extend this welcome to all who enter.
'Activate, Engage & Inspire'
Artwork by Eastern Arrernte Artist Pat Caruso of We Create Print Deliver.
This artwork tells the story of a welcoming, safe, and progressive meeting place. It carries knowledge from thousands of years and bears witness to the changes over time.
At the centre of the artwork lies a concentric circle representing the SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre. It reflects the story of the surrounding community visiting and passing through this welcoming space, sharing knowledge, and learning with one another.
In the heart of the artwork, a black swan acknowledges The Dreaming and the Black Swan Dreaming.
This artwork symbolises a journey of walking side by side with First Nations people, honouring the Kaurna as the Cultural Authority of the area.
It represents a welcoming place of exercise, inclusivity, and engagement, rooted in ancient practices on this land, where fun, learning, community, food, and culture are shared.
In the outer regions of the imagery, you will notice pathways representing water, lakes, and billabongs.
'Activate, Engage & Inspire'
It represents reconciliation in action, honours the Kaurna people and their connection to this land, creates a space where everyone feels valued and celebrates diverse voices and community.
This is one part of our ongoing journey on making our great facility a place where culture, community, and connection thrive.