SWAN Hill’s community gathered in unity and pride on Monday to mark the beginning of NAIDOC Week.
The morning kicked off with a walk from the Clock Tower to Mallee District Aboriginal Services, followed by a flag raising ceremony and morning tea at the organisation’s site.
This year’s theme “Guided by Strength, Shaped by Vision, Carried by Legacy” honours the enduring spirit of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, celebrating the cultural leadership passed down through generations.
This year marks 50 years of NAIDOC Week celebrations.
The event brought together Elders, local families, children, and community leaders to reflect on the strength and achievements of First Nations peoples.
NAIDOC community member Jordan Johnston said the week is about more than just a celebration.
“It’s the kickoff to a week of celebrations for our culture and embracing our roots,” Mr Johnston said.
“It gives us an opportunity to have pride and share this celebration with the community.”
Mr Johnston said that while NAIDOC is officially marked once a year, its meaning resonates far beyond the week itself.
“We’re all here together, embracing what makes this country beautiful,” he said.
“This might be a once-a-year celebration, but it stays with us throughout the year, giving us strength, pride, and confidence.”
Mr Johnston also highlighted the packed week of events ahead, including Family Fun Day at Ken Harrison Reserve, a Youth Basketball tournament, and a Kids Disco, all designed to foster connection and celebration across generations.
Mr Johnston said this year’s theme reflects on the resilience of past generations while empowering the next to carry culture forward.
“The celebration honours our ancestors and those who fought for us to walk here today,” he said.
“This theme is about the next generation, empowering them to embrace our culture and reflect on those before us.”
NAIDOC community member Djallarna Hamilton said the week holds personal and cultural meaning.
“We’ve been doing NAIDOC Week since I was little because my mum was part of organising it,” Ms Hamilton said.
“It’s something we’ve always done, coming together as a community.
“It’s a happy time. We get to be proud of who we are without having to worry about backlash.”
Ms Hamilton said the week’s activities help break down barriers.
“The more we do it, the more the community gets involved,” she said.
“It’s breaking down barriers and embracing Aboriginal culture.
“It’s a positive thing to be involved in the community.”
Ms Hamilton praised the efforts of the Swan Hill Rural City Council and Victoria Police for supporting the event.
“The council and Victoria Police have put in a lot of work to help celebrate,” she said.
“It’s been a massive journey. It’s been really positive working together.”
NAIDOC Week, which stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, has roots going back to the 1930s, and is now a nationwide celebration.
As the flags rose and the community stood together, Mr Johnston summed up the week’s message:
“It’s a great opportunity for everyone to come together, for us to present our culture, and celebrate a shared connection to the land,” he said.
NAIDOC Week runs from July 6 to July 13, with more events planned across Swan Hill and surrounding regions.
Swan Hill NAIDOC Week events
TUESDAY, JULY 08
What: A family fun day including a colour run, cultural activities, arts and crafts, food and refreshments, a jumping castle, soft play and tennis for kids.
Where: Ken Harrison Reserve
When: Tuesday, 11am to 3pm
WEDNESDAY, JULY 09
What: NAIDOC Basketball Game Day, including a basketball workshop, awards and gifts and a BBQ lunch.
Where: Swan Hill Basketball Stadium
When: Wednesday July 9, 10am to 3pm
THURSDAY, JULY 10
What: Elders Lunch – note: this event is an RSVP only event and is for Elders located in the Swan Hill and surrounding areas by registration only.
Where: Swan Hill Racecourse Bowls Club, 15 Gray Street
When: 11am to 3pm
FRIDAY, JULY 11
What: Kidz Disco, including a DJ, games and prizes, pizza, finger food, slushies and a chocolate fountain. Note: parental supervision is required for children under 12.
Where: Swan Hill Resort Function Room, 405-415 Campbell Street.
When: 3pm to 6pm
***
What: Under 18 Youth NAIDOC Ball, with finger food, awards, a DJ and photobooth. Dress Code: your best Deadly self.
Where: Swan Hill Resort, 405-515 Campbell Street.
When: 7pm to 10pm.
FRIDAY, JULY 18
What: Koorioke Night, with special drag queen performances from Ms Zamoomda and Ms Katie Turner. Finger food provided with door prizes and drinks at bar prizes.
Where: Federal Hotel, Murray Downs.
When: from 6pm until late.
For more information regarding the events, visit the Swan Hill NAIDOC Week Facebook page.
