Bundeena artist Tim Cole  recounts his experience at the recent Sorry Day held in Canberra.

The people at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy were expecting us; we had called from Bundeena talking about a mosaic project. When we arrived Aunty Isabelle was welcoming people to country from all over Australia. She had been waiting here for 30 years at the sacred fire, opposite Old Parliament House.

I explained my idea, a mosaic that would say “SORRY” in white, across the dark sky to celebrate this historical occasion. Under no circumstances could I proceed I was told! “SOVEREIGNTY” she said, and then walked to her people.

At first it sounds extreme. I had heard Aboriginal people talk before at protests, mostly about Deaths in Custody, Land Rights and Stolen Generations. It would be spoken through out the embassy all week. It means everything to Aboriginal people; we New Australians have a lot to learn. It would take twice as long to mosaic.

Lots of indigenous and non-indigenous people helped create this mosaic. We heard stories about the Stolen Generations from the victims. The people were happy with the Governments apology, proud and humble.

It was a privilege to have contact with, talk and listen to these inspiring people. Sorry Day cannot heal the past injustice and it won’t fix all the problems Australia faces. What it gives is HOPE that the future is brighter for all Australians.

The mosaic will be at Hazelhurst Regional Gallery, Sutherland Shire, from 16th Oct – 29th Oct, 2008. From there the Sorry Day Mosaic will be returned to the Tent Embassy to be installed into the floor.