US ’N’ U is pleased to introduce The Ancestor Being, a new project in which Andrew Turtle hopes to explore Aboriginal spirituality through journeys around New South Wales. Combining travel, research, photography and personal reflection, the blog follows Andrew as he learns about ancestral beings, publicly shared Dreaming stories, cultural landscapes and the enduring connections between Aboriginal peoples and Country. The journey has begun close to home, with explorations along Dyarubbin—the Hawkesbury River—and into the Blue Mountains. Visits have included Garguree, the Gully in Katoomba; Red Hands Cave near Glenbrook; and riverside places around Richmond, Windsor, Ebenezer and Sackville. Each experience offers an opportunity to slow down, listen and consider the deeper significance of landscapes that can otherwise become familiar backdrops to everyday life. Andrew approaches the project as a visitor and learner, with respect for Traditional Custodians and the cultural knowledge they choose to share publicly. The Ancestor Being brings together his personal experiences and learning, while recognising that Aboriginal spirituality encompasses distinct traditions belonging to different peoples and places. Through this exploration, he hopes to develop a more thoughtful understanding of spirituality, belonging and responsibility towards Country. The blog also makes room for the difficult histories encountered along the way. Alongside places associated with gathering, creativity and ancestral stories are places marked by dispossession and injustice. Exploring these histories is part of Andrew’s growing appreciation of Country as a living landscape that holds memory, culture and continuing connection. As a new US ’N’ U project, The Ancestor Being extends an interest in meaning, connection and the ways we understand our place in the world. Andrew looks forward to expanding his travels across NSW and sharing what he learns through future entries. Follow Andrew’s journey at The Ancestor Being.

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been putting together a new website for Richmond Rotary. Bringing everything into one place has reminded me just how much the club does for our community. The website is still at a temporary address, but you can explore it here: Richmond Rotary website. If you’re interested in joining Richmond Rotary, please get in touch with me. I’d be happy to tell you more about what we do and how you can get involved.