Aunty Joy Oldaker

My name is Joy Oldaker, I am Wadawurrung Traditional Owner and a proud Wadawurrung elder.

I have been a member of Wadawurrung for over 20 years. During this time, I have been a Board Member and presently I am employed by the Corporation as the Membership Relations Coordinator.

I was privileged to be chosen to represent Wadawurrung at the Closing Ceremony of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, where I presented message sticks to the President of the Commonwealth Games Federation, Dame Louise Martin, to bring back to the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will be held partially on Wadawurrung Country.

It was a very proud moment for myself and my mother, who is the oldest living Wadawurrung elder, at 96.

I have a deep passion working with our Wadawurrung Members, old and new. One of the greatest achievements is reconnecting family members.

I am also on the Council of Elders working together with Elders to ensure Culture is protected, their knowledge is passed on, and that they have a safe place to be heard and respected.

The Assembly needs strong voices, that listen and can demonstrate loyalty, so we can move forward with purpose and hope for a better future.

Nyatne (thank you)