Guest host of The Mission Uncle Charles Pakana speaks with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung elder and lore man, Uncle Bill Nicholson Jr, about the origins and significance of the Welcome to Country.

Deeply committed to Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung culture, Uncle Bill explains how this tradition stems from ancient customs of safe passage, message sticks, and ceremonial exchanges.

He highlights its role in fostering respect, connection, and continuity of culture, reinforcing that Welcome to Country is not about exclusion but about honouring the land and its First Peoples.

“As an elder of Wurundjeri, this is a custom that’s been around a long time, and I can’t see it ending anytime soon.”