Join the annual NAIDOC Week celebrations throughout the region from July 8 to 11.
In 2018 the theme is ‘Because of her, we can’ which celebrates the essential role that women have played – and continue to play – as active and significant role models at a community, local, state and national level.
Byron Shire
Everyone is invited to mark the start of NAIDOC week on Monday 9 July at a flag-raising ceremony at the Council Chambers in Mullumbimby.
That evening the opening of the Aboriginal Art Exhibition will take place at 5.30pm at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall. The exhibition closes on July 15.
The theme for this year is Because of Her, We Can – an acknowledgement of the role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in communities around the country.
‘It’s an honour for the council to work so closely with the Arakwal people, who are the traditional custodians of the land, and I am so proud of the work that has been done over the years to make Byron a centrepiece when it comes to recognition and reconciliation,’ mayor Simon Richardson said.
The Arakwal NAIDOC film night will be held on Tuesday 10 July from 6.30pm at the Byron Community Centre while the Mullum family fun day takes place on Wednesday 11 July from 10am at the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre.
The Bundjalung of Byron family cultural day will be held on Thursday 12 July with a Railway Park march at 10am culminating at Dening Park, Byron Bay, for celebrations between 11am and 2pm.
‘I encourage everyone to reflect on the history of the Arakwal people in this area, and celebrate their culture,’ Mr Richardson said.
Lismore
The annual NAIDOC Celebration Day at the Lismore Showground is a chance for people from all cultures to enjoy learning about the world’s oldest living culture through sharing, fun and friendship.
The day features a formal Welcome to Country and information stalls from more than 30 local service providers as well as family activities including sports games, children’s activities, face painting, food stalls and a sausage sizzle.
There will also be Aboriginal business displays, a talent showcase by local schools and an Elders Tent with morning tea and lunch provided for local Bundjalung Elders.
‘NAIDOC Celebration Day is about providing a space where the whole community can proudly celebrate the richness of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture,’ Council’s event officer Leanne Clark said.
‘Coming together in celebration is an important and informal way to share culture and learn from one another. Events like this provide an opportunity for people to talk to one another, learn from one another, laugh with one another and ultimately, leave with a greater appreciation and understanding of one another’s culture.’
NAIDOC Celebration Day runs from 10am to 2pm at the Lismore Showground on Thursday, 5 July. Entry is free and the whole community is welcome.
Ballina
Celebrations will be taking place in Ballina Shire from Sunday 8 July and continue through to Sunday 15 July that will include music event, celebration walk, family cultural way, sports day, disco, dinner dance, art exhibition and more.
The program will open with the Yardabalair (to sing) music event on Sunday 8 July, 10am till 3.30pm at the Missingham Park Amphitheatre that will include live music, stalls, displays and interactive activities and workshops.
The Annual Celebration Walk will take place Monday 9 July at 10.30am starting at the Ballina RSL Club while the family cultural day will be on Cabbage Tree Island.
For more information see the Ballina Shire Council website.
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