The operator of a prominent tourist attraction has taken steps to build relationships, trust and respect with First Nations communities.
Merlin Entertainments, which runs nine Australian attractions, including SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, launched its Reconciliation Action Plan to ensure balance and representation from all cultures, genders and backgrounds.
The launch involved events at Gubbi Gubbi Country at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast and Wurundjeri Country at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, involving representatives from local First Nations communities and Merlin team members.
An event was also planned on Gadigal Land at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.
An important feature of the launch was the unveiling of an artwork from Gunnai, Gunditjmara, Dhudhuroa and Yorta Yorta artist Bitja (Dixon Patten) of Bayila Creative.
Bitja’s artwork represents people from Merlin and the community sitting, sharing and learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
The artwork will be displayed in each of Merlin’s Australian attractions.
The General Manager of SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, Quinn Clarke, was at the launch and said he looked forward to the attraction continuing its reconciliation journey.
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“We are pleased to have officially launched our first Reconciliation Action Plan and are eager to continue our reconciliation journey here at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast.”
“We welcomed Lyndon Davis from Gubbi Gubbi Dance to talk to our team about the importance of reconciliation and the need for us to further establish relationships with local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities.
“We are grateful for Lyndon’s time and look forward to continuing this journey.”
Meanwhile, Ian Wood, Merlin’s Regional Director ANZ and RAP Champion, said the business would deliver meaningful actions and outcomes.
“Our RAP will help us on our journey of reconciliation as we establish strong relationships through our engagement and consultation with local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities to learn about the importance of the Land, Sea and Country,” he said.
“We believe this is an important step in creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
“We recognise the importance of reconciliation, and the impact businesses can have on achieving it – we all need to do our part, and this is us doing ours. We want to contribute and implement meaningful change.”
Merlin operates nine attractions in Australia including SEA LIFE Aquariums in Sydney, Melbourne and on the Sunshine Coast, Madame Tussauds Sydney, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Sydney Tower Eye, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures and Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures.
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