Muswellbrook acknowledged the event at the library on Monday, with respected elders Barry and Helen French joining representatives from community groups to build further awareness among the younger generation.

Local school children learned about indigenous culture through story-telling, dancing and artwork.

Family Insight’s Anne Watson said the day was crucial to continue the healing process.

“The apology was one of the first major recognitions from the government and this day acknowledges that it was given,” she said.

“I’m not from the Aboriginal community but I’ve heard stories along the way about the impact it’s had, so this is all about strengthening families and the community.”

Indigenous Australians were subjected to centuries of mistreatment after the British first settled in the late 1780s.

The stolen generation, where children were forcibly removed from their families by the Australian Government, was a significant part of their abuse.

Muswellbrook’s event was supported by the Healing Foundation, Upper Hunter Regional Library, Family InSight and the Local Aboriginal Land Council.