50 years of NAIDOC

THE NAIDOC Week Celebration Walk in Ballina marked an important milestone with the community gathering to acknowledge 50 years of advocacy, culture and resilience of First Nations people in the region.

It launched a week of NAIDOC activities across Ballina Shire, bringing people together to celebrate the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

NAIDOC Week organising committee member Reninya Roberts said the strong community support was one of the event’s greatest strengths.

“It’s great that the community turns up. We’ve always felt that support here in Ballina and it’s all about turning up, showing up and doing it together,” she said.

“A lot of us have been part of this movement for a long time. I grew up in Ballina, so I’ve been here for basically the whole journey.”

Roberts said it was especially encouraging to see young people taking part in the celebration.

“It’s particularly good to see all the young kids here today and what they add to the event,” she said.

“We really appreciate the support we get from council and the wider community.

“It’s about representing our culture, keeping our traditions alive and making sure those voices keep being heard.”

Ballina Shire mayor Sharon Cadwallader said NAIDOC Week was an opportunity for all Australians to come together in recognition and celebration.

“NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to support their local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” she said.

“It is a time to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“This year’s theme is a tribute to those who have built this movement over the past 50 years, the Elders who continue to guide us, and the next generation who will carry that legacy forward.”