With love, respect and humility,

I acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land I reside in, the Wodi Wodi people

of Dharawal Country and the Gadigal people of Eora Country.

I acknowledge the continued connection to culture and ongoing care of Country,

which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have preserved for thousands of years.

I would also like to extend my solidarity to those across the globe resisting colonisation.

Sovereignty was never ceded.

Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

Uncle Peter Button is a passionate environmental and cultural advocate who has spent many years working to protect both Country and community in the Illawarra. Through his work with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, as well as his own personal commitment, he has been deeply involved in caring for the region’s natural landscapes and safeguarding important cultural sites.

Peter works tirelessly to preserve and promote Aboriginal culture and heritage. He is a representative in the Sandon Point Aboriginal Place Joint Management Agreement Partnership and an active member of the Sandon Point Aboriginal Tent Embassy, where he continues to advocate for the protection of cultural heritage and the recognition of Aboriginal custodianship.

In recognition of his long-standing contribution to community and culture, Uncle Peter was named Wollongong’s Aboriginal Male Elder of the Year in 2022.