Community members are invited to come together during National Reconciliation Week 2026 for Stories That Shaped Us — a community-led event and exhibition celebrating stories, memories, culture and connection across Cook Shire.
Coordinated by Gungarde Community Centre in partnership with the Cooktown Museum and Cooktown Re-enactment Association, and supported by Cook Shire Council, the event will be held at Gungarde Hall on Tuesday 2 June 2026 from 10am to 2pm.
Inspired by this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, All In, the event aims to create a welcoming and reflective space for people to come together, explore shared histories, and recognise the people, places and stories that have helped shape Cooktown and the wider region.
The exhibition-style event is expected to feature a collection of community stories, exhibitions, activities and cultural information exploring a range of local topics and perspectives across generations.
A yarning circle featuring local Indigenous Elders and community leaders will also form part of the day, providing an opportunity for storytelling, reflection and conversation in the spirit of reconciliation and understanding.
Community groups, organisations and individuals are all invited and encouraged to attend and anyone interested in contributing stories, photographs, displays or memorabilia are encouraged to contact Melissa Griffiths at Gungarde Community Centre.
Cook Shire Council is proud to support the initiative as part of the Shire’s broader National Reconciliation Week program, alongside local organisations and community groups working together to create opportunities for learning, reflection and connection across the community.