NAIDOC Flag Raising at Federation Square took place this morning.
It was great to see such a great turnout. With this year ’s Theme: For Our Elders. We acknowledge the ongoing fight and contribution to community and family.
The annual Flag Raising Ceremony officially marks the beginning of NAIDOC Week in Victoria. It brings members of the community together to publicly commemorate the importance of NAIDOC week.
The event honours continued connection to culture, country and language of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with a Smoking Ceremony, Welcome to Country and a one minute silence in honour of Aboriginal Elders who have passed to the dreaming in the last year and for all ancestors who have fought for the survival of Aboriginal people and culture.
NAIDOC week is an opportunity for First Nations people to come together in a positive and cultural context – encouraging families, community and elders to recognise the enormous contribution that First Nations people make to the community.
There was a performance by Madie Coville - Walker, Marcia Legg Chairperson with the introduction to NAIDOC, Aunty Alice Kolasa, a proud Woiwurrung/Wurundjeri-Baluk women shared her important message Smoking ceremony from Uncle Colin Hunter Jnr Minister for Mental Health and Treaty and First people, Gabrielle Williams gave an inspirational speech to the community.
Winners of the Naidoc of the Year including VIC Elder of the Year - Alan Thorpe VIC Ms Naidoc of the Year - Milla Morgan VIC Sports Person of the Year - Elvis Cater VIC Mr Naidoc of the Year - Brodie Murray and VIC Elder of the Year - Ada Peterson (who was attending her home in Mildura Festival)
3KND Will be broadcasting events throughout the week please check out our social media pages for more information.
HAPPY NAIDOC WEEK - 3KND Keeping Community Connected