It was wonderful to kick off NAIDOC Week 2023 with a fabulous turnout at Central Coast Council’s Flag Raising Ceremony and morning tea, held at the Wyong Administration building on Monday 3 July.

NAIDOC Week is an important annual event held across Australia to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

This year’s theme, ‘For our Elders’, recognises the role that Elders play in First Nations communities and families, celebrating their leadership, knowledge, progression, advocacy, teaching and care for others.

An outstanding local Elder, Aunty Leslie, was recognised at the Council ceremony with her family, friends, students and the broader community sharing stories about the powerful and life-changing impacts Aunty Leslie has had on their lives. I was honoured to be able to hear these stories, and I express my sincere thanks to Aunty Leslie for the decades of work she has undertaken for Aboriginal Australians in our community.

In addition to Monday’s official celebration, Council’s libraries are hosting education activities themed around Aboriginal experiences and knowledge. 

Activities this year include the Pamagirri group transporting viewers, in a full 360-degree view, to far north Queensland demonstrating songs, legends and art through virtual reality, the Koori Kinnections school holiday workshop at Tuggerah and Erina libraries where kids can build their own canoes and play games, and Dreamtime Story events with The Aunties from Mingaletta at Umina Library.

Happy NAIDOC Week! 

Rik Hart, Administrator