NAIDOC Week 2023

Published on 09 June 2023

NAIDOC week is an opportunity for us all to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year NAIDOC runs from 2 – 9 July and Mansfield Shire Council has been working closely with the Gadhaba Local Aboriginal Network and Taungurung Elders Aunty Bernadette Franklin and Aunty Angela ten Buuren (Franklin) to offer a range of events.

“We are excited and happy to see the range of events offered in Mansfield Shire for NAIDOC week,” said Aunty Angela ten Buuren, proud Taungurung Elder and Gadhaba member.

“The Gadhaba network has been working closely with the Shire to put together a program that offers education, art, and activities to be shared by our first peoples with the community.”

“Council is happy to be working with our first nations and Taungurung people to present NAIDOC Week 2023,” said Mayor Cr James Tehan.

“It is an opportunity to share, educate and come together to recognise and celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.”

An official opening will take place on Sunday 2 July from 2pm at the Station Precinct. A Smoking & Welcome Ceremony will be followed by the raising of the Indigenous & Torres Strait Islander Flags, the unveiling of the stunning new mosaic rocks in the Gadhaba Gathering Place and afternoon tea and music.

Throughout the week there are a range of activities for all to enjoy, including:

• Mullum Wetlands walk with Vern Simsen who will discuss bush tukka, plant types and Indigenous land management
• Hear from Uncle Ronald Briggs about the upcoming referendum. Ron was awarded the Reg Blow Reconciliation Award from the City of Whittlesea and was nominated for a National Reconciliation Award
• Weaving and Clay Ochre Sculpture workshops with favourite Taungurung artist Cassie Leatham
• A screening of the new film ‘The Last Daughter’, a documentary about Brenda’s journey to unearth the truth about her past, and to reconcile the two sides of her family
• The return of Kids Storytime with local Gadhaba chairperson Miranda Connaughton, a favourite from last year.
• Week-long Gadhaba display from Aunty Angela ten Buuren at the Visitor Information Centre.

All activities are free to attend, and some have limited spots and need to be booked. Head to mansfield.vic.gov.au/events to find out more or look for the posters with a QR code around town and in The Courier newspaper.