NAIDOC Week (3 to 10 July) is an opportunity for people of all walks of life to learn and celebrate the oldest, continuing culture on the planet.

This year the NAIDOC theme is Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! – calling on everyone to show up in driving effective change, whilst commemorating and acknowledging the many Aboriginal people who fought for equal rights.

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Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ben Franklin said NAIDOC Week is a significant week for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“NAIDOC Week this year will be back bigger and better than ever,” Mr Franklin said.

“Due to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions over the past two years, many NAIDOC events were postponed or cancelled.

“Aboriginal communities are looking forward to the return of a full program for NAIDOC Week and the opportunity to showcase their cultural and remarkable achievements, while celebrating connection and historic rituals, dance and performance.

“NAIDOC Week is for all Australians and a great opportunity for non-Aboriginal people to be involved, learn and celebrate with Aboriginal communities and organisations across the country.”

In Urunga, Bellingen Shire Council, One Mob Radio, The Neighbourhood Centres of Bellingen Shire and Interrelate organised a NAIDOC Fun Day at Urunga Neighbourhood Centre on Monday July 4.

The program of events, activities and entertainment including an official Welcome to Country by Frances Witt, a smoking ceremony, musical performance by Kauri Munro Greentree, performances by the Bellingen High School Aboriginal Dance Group, a Cultural Mindfulness Tent, Mini radio workshops, didgeridoo performances, damper making, a BBQ, cultural activities and more.

The origins of NAIDOC, which stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, can be traced to the emergence of Aboriginal groups in the 1920′s which sought to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians.

Bellingen Shire Mayor Cr Steve Allan said, “It is essential that we recognise and celebrate the oldest, continuing living culture on the planet, not just during NAIDOC Week but at all times.

“Bellingen Shire Council is committed to actively supporting and acknowledging our Gumbaynggirr heritage and culture in consultation with the local community.”

For more information about National NAIDOC Week, visit www.naidoc.org.au.

The Aboriginal flag flying proudly on the way into Scotts Head.