DESPITE covering more than 3000 kilometres, Alwyn Doolan knows his rousing journey has just begun.
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In fact, after attending a special morning tea at Simpson Park on Thursday, the man on the Message Stick Walk still faces another 4000km.
So far, he’s strolled from Bamaga, at the tip of Cape York, to Muswellbrook en route to Canberra where he will hand over a form of notice upon Treaty Re-Negotiations with First Nations People to the Australian Government.
On his trek, Mr Doolan has met with indigenous communities – including members of the Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council – with a dream to inspire lockstep support for Aboriginal rights, self-determination and treaty.
It’s his intention to seek an audience with Prime Minister Scott Morrison, too.
He hoped the walk would send a message to younger generations of indigenous Australians, which will motivate and lift awareness and desire for reconciliation.
“I’ve been well-received everywhere I’ve gone, including Tamworth on Sunday,” Mr Doolan said.
“I didn’t have any real expectations when I started eight months ago, so I’m pleasantly surprised by the response.
“I wanted to inflict as much inspiration as I could.
“The [Message Stick] walk is inclusive because the non-indigenous people play a great deal in the healing.
“And, I think my message is being heard.
“There’s common value in our society no matter what race you are.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about equality and equity.
“I must admit, I’m looking forward to arriving in Newcastle on the weekend.
“It’s so hot [in the Upper Hunter]; I can’t wait to jump in the surf.”
After he delivers his submission to the government at the end of May, Mr Doolan said he would walk from Canberra to Uluru where he plans to hold a First Nations yarning circle.
“[It’s] where we can talk among ourselves and no government voices are in place and we can come up with our goal and what is going to work best for this treaty as a nation,” he added.
To keep updated on Mr Doolan’s travels, follow the Message Stick Walk Facebook page on https://www.facebook.com/Message-Stick-Walk-1998574047070303/