Ngarrindjeri Elder Mulla Sumner delivered a passionate message to the next generation, “Don’t let our culture die out”, as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations for Aboriginal Community Services (ACS), South Australia’s largest Aboriginal-controlled aged care provider.
Marking three decades since its founding, the event brought together Elders and young First Nations people in a powerful exchange of cultural wisdom and gratitude. Messages from Elders were recorded and shared with students from the Tjindu Foundation during NAIDOC Week, while students responded with heartfelt tributes, including 17-year-old East Arrente student Tarkyn, who said: “We are really grateful for all the knowledge of culture you have passed down.”
Established in Adelaide on 28 July 1995 by Aboriginal men and women concerned about the isolation of Elders, ACS has grown from a grassroots not-for-profit into a vital provider of culturally safe aged care across metropolitan and regional South Australia. It now delivers in-home services and operates the state’s only Aboriginal-specific residential aged care home at Davoren Park.
Ngarrindjeri Elder Aunty Maxine Risk, Wirangu/Kokatha Elder Aunty Cheryl Saunders, and Warlpiri/Kaytej/Anmatyerre/Alyawarre Elder Aunty Daisybelle Foster were among those who shared personal reflections and hopes for the future.
“My passion is to see the next generation have a go at it….We need somebody to stand up and be a voice for us.”
Ngarrindjeri Elder Maxine Risk
ACS CEO Graham Aitken reflected on the milestone with pride: “Our Elders are the cultural knowledge holders, teachers, leaders and survivors of our communities. It’s our responsibility to ensure they age with dignity, connected to Country, culture and loved ones.”
Looking ahead, Aitken said ACS would continue expanding culturally appropriate services, honouring the legacy of the past and supporting the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders with respect and care.
