Peppan Traditional Custodians welcomed ADF personnel deployed as Joint Task Force 629 (JTF629) to Country in Weipa during Exercise Austral Shield using water sourced from local springs in a ceremony unique to the region.

Unlike the more common smoking ceremony, custodians sprinkled the water over personnel’s heads as they lined up to be welcomed to Country.

Peppan custodian Janice Wilson said the ceremony was an important tradition passed down through generations.

“The purpose of Welcome to Country is important for the protection of the soldiers that are here on the base,” Ms Wilson said.

“When you come out here, you can feel the presence of our Elders, the ones that have passed.”

The water used during the ceremony came from the Trakapayn Springs, meaning “head of the spring”.

Ms Wilson said Australian soldiers protected the nation, while the ancestors watched over those who came onto their land.

'The interaction and engagement with the local community is probably the most fulfilling part of it.'

Base Commander and Commander Task Unit Wing Commander Tai Kohn said the ceremony was an important part of Exercise Austral Shield, particularly as JTF629 personnel arrived in the region.

“The Welcome to Country ceremony is specifically important because it allows us to formally recognise Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise the land on which we operate,” Wing Commander Kohn said.

She said the use of water from local springs made the ceremony especially meaningful.

“This blessing was even more special because of the natural connection to the springs. It is something we don’t see elsewhere.”

Despite the base operating around the clock to support the exercise, the ceremony remained an important part of welcoming JTF629 to the area. 

Warrant Officer Scott Triffit, who leads the five-person caretaker team at RAAF Base Scherger, Queensland, said engagement with the local community was one of the most rewarding aspects of living and working in Weipa.

“The interaction and engagement with the local community is probably the most fulfilling part of it,” Warrant Officer Triffit said.

“It’s very important to embrace the community.”