Focus turns to youth as NAIDOC Week celebrates 50-year anniversary

HUNDREDS of people will line the streets of Ballina for the annual celebration walk as part of NAIDOC Week.

Ballina Shire Council, Bullinah Aborginal Health Service and a variety of community groups have organised a full week of activities from July 7-13.

The walk will be held at 10am from the RSL club along River Street to the Ballina Visitor Information Centre for the official flag-raising ceremony, with speeches and dances.

The national theme for 2025 is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

National NAIDOC Committee co-chair Aunty Lynette said a focus on youth helps build future leaders in culture, along with ongoing efforts around social and political issues.

“We need their ongoing help as we continue to fight for justice and equity in Australia,” she said.

“We want to highlight the amazing role our youth play in our futures.

“They are our strength, they provide our vision through their ongoing work with Elders in their own communities and they are responsible for future legacies.”

The Elders luncheon will be held at the Richmond Room on Tuesday, July 8, while the popular three-on-three basketball competition returns on Wednesday at the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre.

Other events during the week include the Goori culture art and music festival along with the mural painting and weaving circle.

The full program can be found at ballina.nsw.gov.au/Community/Culture-and-Events/NAIDOC-Week.