NAIDOC Week, an annual celebration in Australia, holds profound significance as a time to honour and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The acronym NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, reflecting its origins in the 1920s when Aboriginal groups protested against the treatment of their peoples.
Today, NAIDOC Week is observed across the country each July, encompassing a range of activities that promote awareness and understanding of Indigenous Australian heritage. It serves as a platform for communities to come together, celebrate diversity, and share stories that highlight the resilience and rich cultural tapestry of Indigenous peoples.
The 2024 NAIDOC theme ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud’ will be plastered throughout the week and will feature events such as cultural performances, art exhibitions, community festivals, and educational workshops.
The North Shore is bustling with NAIDOC events for you and the family to get down to, chances to broaden your knowledge and experience the oldest culture in the country.
Northern Beaches
- Weaving Stories Workshops at Manly, 1 Jun – Fri 12 Jul.
- Three Echoes: Western Desert Art at Manly Art Gallery 14 June – 28 July 2024
- NAIDOC storytelling at Dee Why – 8th July
- Aboriginal Bracelet Weaving Workshop at Mona Vale Library – 10th July
Hornsby Shire
- Storytime at Hornsby Library, 11th July
- Puzzle trail at Hornsby Library, 7th July – Sunday 14th July
- Drop in craft at Hornsby Library, Friday 12th July.
Ku-ring-gai
- Bushfoods experience 16+ at ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 13th July
- Children’s traditional dance workshop at St Ives showground, 11th June
- Children’s weaving intro with Freshwater Education at St Ives showground, 10th July
North Sydney
- Stone art and canvas workshop at Stanton Library, Tuesday 9th
- Indigenous cultural presentation on fire at Stanton Library, Tuesday 9th
Willoughby
- School holiday bushwalk starting at the rotary athletic field car park, Tuesday 9th July
In essence, NAIDOC Week is more than just a series of events; it is a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.