15/07/2024

I am proud to reflect on the celebrations that took place during NAIDOC Week 2024. From Sunday 7 July to Sunday 14 July, we joined communities across the Georges River in celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples under the empowering theme ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’.
 
NAIDOC Week is a time for all Australians to deepen our understanding of the oldest continuous living cultures on earth. It provides us with a unique opportunity to engage with and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, celebrating their resilience, creativity, and contributions to our shared history.
 
One of the highlights of this year's NAIDOC Week was the 3Bridges NAIDOC Youth and Family Day at Carss Bush Park. This event, planned and hosted by the dedicated team at 3Bridges, featured an array of markets, workshops, food vendors, and entertainment.
 
Special thanks to Will Gordon, a proud Kabi-Kabi Goreng Goreng man and the Aboriginal Targeted Programs Coordinator at 3Bridges, whose leadership and vision were instrumental in bringing this event to life. Will’s recognition as the Third Sector First Nations Leader of the Year in 2023 is a testament to his commitment and impact.
 
The Youth and Family Day was a true reflection of community spirit, with spaces dedicated to our elders and seniors, ensuring that everyone felt included and celebrated. The engagement and joy seen on the faces of attendees, from the youngest to the oldest, were heartwarming and inspiring.
 
Additionally, to mark the school holidays, we hosted a public screening of a family-friendly movie, Satellite Boy, that provided insights into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures. This initiative, recommended by our Council's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, was well-received and offered a valuable educational experience for families.
 
Our local libraries and the Hurstville Museum & Gallery also joined in the celebrations with NAIDOC-themed Storytimes and a colouring station. These activities provided creative and interactive ways for children and families to engage with the themes of NAIDOC Week.
 
I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making NAIDOC Week 2024 a resounding success, particularly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee for their invaluable guidance and support. The partnerships between local government, community organisations like 3Bridges, and businesses are vital in ensuring the success of such events.
 
As we move forward, let us continue to ‘Keep the Fire Burning’ and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures with pride and passion. Our community is stronger for these connections, and together, we can ensure that the spirit of NAIDOC Week continues throughout the year.