NAIDOC Week is loud and proud across the Outback
NAIDOC Week 2024 is being celebrated this week July 7th – 14th with the theme of “Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud.”
The theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
There are plenty of ways to locally celebrate this important week.
In Bourke, Maranguka are holding a host of events including a march to Darling Park, flag raising, activities, dance, traditional tucker, speeches, and music.
During the week, there’s plenty of things happening including an Elders luncheon, Family Day, Community Day and a Remembrance Ceremony for Aboriginal servicemen and women.
The Remembrance Ceremony will be held at the Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service at 11am on Friday, July 12.
Maranguka’s NAIDOC Week is extending into the next week, and on Friday, July 19th celebrations will culminate with the 50th anniversary NAIDOC Ball.
This spectacular event is a night of celebration and fun at the Bourke Bowling Club where people are encouraged to put on their best mask and dress to impress for a night of dancing, music, and good vibes. What better way to honour and celebrate the rich culture and history of Indigenous Australians?
NAIDOC Week will be jam-packed at Brewarrina as well.
The Googars NAIDOC Round kicked off at Geoff New Oval on Sunday, with a jumping castle for the kids in the afternoon.
The NAIDOC march was held on Monday, and activities continue all week including circus skills, ice skating, a pinnacle challenge and free lunch.
An Elders morning tea kicks off today’s schedule (Thursday 11 July) which ends with a movie night. Mission Australia’s Fun Day tomorrow, Friday, July 12 offers the opportunity to attempt weaving and sand art at the Museum, as well as continue with circus skills and ice skating.
Supported by multiple agencies, there is also a bus running for pick up and drop offs. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Orana Hub Haven Facebook page.
The Walgett community also celebrated NAIDOC Week, with an opening on the Council lawns on Monday. Collarenebri held a Community Day at the Lions Park on Tuesday, and Wednesday was all about community engagement with an activities day scheduled at No 1 Oval. The week of celebrations winds up at the Lightning Ridge’s Community Day at Spider Brown Oval today, Thursday July 11 from 10am – 2pm.
Comments