SA Power Networks has a proud and long-standing partnership with the Australia Day Council of South Australia, which actively contributes to the promotion of First Nations voices and engagement with Australia Day celebrations in the state.

Since 2019, we have supported Mourning in the Morning - an annual event hosted on the morning of 26 January to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their histories, cultures, and perspectives.

Held in Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama on the banks of the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri, the event began with a Welcome to Kaurna Country and a Smoking Ceremony led by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner. Yankunytjatjara woman and language expert Karina Lester delivered a powerful keynote on the importance of reviving and protecting First Nations languages.

Thousands came to reflect, listen, and participate in this moving ceremony, which also featured performances from local musicians and dancers, and a Q and A session. 

More than 750 beautiful, supportive messages of solidarity were shared on 'Respectfully Yours' cards, and 400 seed packets of Yam Daisy and Kangaroo Grass were distributed to help regenerate Kaurna Country. These seed packets symbolised a commitment to healing and growth.

Mourning in the Morning served as a space for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians to come together in unity on 26 January.

The event is part of a broader effort to foster reconciliation and recognition through First Nations-led initiatives.

Image gallery

See additional images from the event. Photos by Andrew Beveridge, Australia Day Council of South Australia.