At the Naidoc Week celebrations, the mother of one spoke passionately to the Midland Reporter about what is to her one of the most important events of the year.
‘It is time to make a change,’ she said.
‘Everybody is different; we are all individuals and we all have a story to tell,’ she said.
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READ NOW‘Some people think indigenous culture has a bad reputation and some people do not like to associate with residents here, but events like this really bring everyone together.’
She said it was important to her that her daughter Ahlaira Collard grew up in a society that was more accepting of indigenous culture.
Midland Communities for Children Plus worker Jude Bridgland Sorenson echoed Ms Quartermaine’s views.
‘It is so great to see children celebrate at these events,’ she said. ‘It is important for us to come together and share our stories with each other because without stories, our community is poorer.’
Ms Bridgland Sorenson, who has worked in the youth sector for 27 years, said early intervention was the key.