Community comes together for NAIDOC week

FOR the first time, a joint NAIDOC week celebration was held this Tuesday by the City of Ballarat in collaboration with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Corporation.

The took place in Queen Victoria Square in front of Town Hall and included a welcome to country by elder Aunty Marlene Gilson, a smoking ceremony, and a flag raising event.

The 2023 theme of NAIDOC week is For Our Elders and seeks to recognise of the significant role senior First Nations community members have played over many years.

In fitting with the theme, Ballarat Koorie Engagement Action Group member Nikki Foy said it was important to recognise the contributions of elders.

“I’d also really like to acknowledge are the trailblazers and our elders who have paved the way to where we are today,” she said.

“It didn’t come easy for a lot of them I know, and a lot of our elders are here in spirit.”

The ceremony was followed by a community event at the Art Gallery of Ballarat with several presentations.

Cr Belinda Coates acknowledged the importance of recognising the occasion.

“Celebrating, promoting, and partnering with Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and community members in diverse ways helps improve the entire city,” she said.

“We are honoured to work collaboratively with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation for this event and value our relationship with them.”