Ceremony: Welcome to Our Country (2022) by Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing

Posted by QAIHC | Aug 28, 2025 | Deadly Entertainment, Deadly Reading, Uncategorized

Image: Allen and Unwin

A joyful celebration of family and culture, the Welcome to Our Country series introduces First Nations history to children. From Australian of the Year Adam Goodes, co-writer Ellie Laing, and Barkindji illustrator David Hardy.

Welcome, children!
Nangga! Nangga! Yakarti!
Tonight will be our Ceremony.

Our family gathers as the fire burns.
The smoke rises up as we take it in turns . . .
Then clapsticks tap — one, two, three —
but a stick is missing! Where could it be?

Find out more here: Allen and Unwin

About The Author

QAIHC

The Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) is a leadership and policy organisation. We were established in 1990 and are the peak organisation representing all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (ATSICCHO) in Queensland at both a state and national level. The QAIHC Membership is comprised of ATSICCHOs located throughout Queensland. Nationally, we represent Queensland through its affiliation and Membership on the board of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).

ABOUT

Sector Leader Magazine is published by the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC).

We welcome submissions from our Members, Associates and Affiliates on the great work being undertaken within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisation Sector.

If you would like to contribute story ideas for consideration or comment on items in the current issue, please contact our Communications Team at communications@qaihc.com.au. Previous issues can be viewed online at qaihc.com.au

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that this publication may contain images or names of people who have passed away.