Lightning Ridge celebrates culture and achievement at NAIDOC Ball

The Wirringahs Elders Group was recognised with the Community Group Award. Photo: Almalie Cook.

Story: Kristin Murdock and Rata Jackson

The return of the Lightning Ridge NAIDOC Ball after more than two decades brought the community together at the Lightning Ridge Bowling Club last Saturday night to celebrate Aboriginal achievement and culture.

Barriekneal Housing and Community Ltd hosted the event and representative Dyane McHughes said reviving the NAIDOC Ball was about creating an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the positive achievements of Aboriginal people.

“Lightning Ridge has not held a NAIDOC Ball for over 20 years,” Ms McHughes said.

“Barriekneal Housing thought it was time for the Aboriginal people to come together to recognise all the wonderful achievements and to celebrate something positive in the community.

“NAIDOC to me personally is a sense of pride and identity. It is a week of celebration when First Nations people get a chance to share their culture and knowledge with all Australians. […]

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