A podcast to share the stories, knowledge and wisdom of our First Nations Elders.
Proudly presented by Bendigo Bank, A yarn with our Elders creates space for us to connect with our First Nations Elders, who are truly inspired storytellers.
It’s a time to listen deeply and with open hearts, as we learn from the oldest living culture.
Join us as we acknowledge the wrongs of the past, the milestones that have been reached, and envision a unified nation, ready to heal.
Hosted by Simone Sexton, Bendigo Bank's Diversity & Inclusion Specialist, and proud Mununjali woman, A yarn with our Elders is available on your favourite podcast app, or you can listen to each episode on this page.
Trailer
Image shows Uncle Shane Charles, an academic, government advisor, proud Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung man and Yorta Yorta Elder, in conversation with podcast host, Simon Sexton.
In conversation with uncle Shane Charles and Simone Sexton
In this episode, we’re joined by uncle Shane Charles - an academic, government advisor, proud Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung man and Yorta Yorta Elder. Uncle Shane is ready to share stories and knowledge about country, stillness and how deep listening has never been more vital.
He’ll help us understand what it means to be an Elder, the difference between the Western nuclear family and First Nations’ family structures, the importance of connection to country and how we can all help pave the way towards reconciliation.
In conversation with uncle Graham Atkinson and Simone Sexton
Uncle Graham Atkinson is a Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional owner and Yorta Yorta man, Elder, and powerful consultant to government and indigenous communities. He’s got a lot of wisdom to share on the path to effective change and how activism doesn't happen overnight. He’s also a strong believer in ‘if you look after country, it will look after you’.
In conversation with Vic Chapman and Emily Chapman
Elders are phenomenal storytellers, and Vic Chapman, a Yuwaalaraay man, is no exception. He was the first Aboriginal school principal in NSW, a true pioneer, who believes that education and constitution recognition is vital to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
In this episode, Vic is interviewed by his granddaughter, Emily Chapman, a Dharawal woman, and Bendigo Bank team member, who burns for the rediscovery of languages. This is truly a beautiful yarn, shared between two close family members, who delve into the important role Elders play in our cultures.
In conversation with aunty Zeta Thomson and Simone Sexton
We are Country, according to aunty Zeta Thomson, a proud descendant of Yorta Yorta and Wurundjeri clans. She tells stories through her art, which has adorned the walls of prominent Australian galleries.
In this yarn, we discuss how Elders are a library of knowledge, inspiring the next generation of truth-telling warriors. Aunty Zeta has much to say about our connectedness to country and the importance of exploring languages that have been lost. As a strong voice for First Nations peoples in custody, she’s a truly inspiring Elder to yarn with.
This podcast is presented by Bendigo Bank to facilitate conversations and the independent views of First Nations guests.
Artwork and Acknowledgment of Country is by Troy Firebrace, proud Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung artist and educator.
You can learn more about our commitment to recognising, respecting, and understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures through our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan.
