THE next generation were given their moment in the spotlight at the first NAIDOC Youth Ball in Swan Hill.
NAIDOC committee organiser Keely-Shayla Teariki said the night was a celebration of culture, pride, and the next generation of leaders.
“The ball gave our young people a different experience with their culture at the centre to share with our community and allies,” she said.
“We presented awards for academia, athletics, arts and volunteering, which were all nominated by their community and chosen by an external leader, which showed them that their community is watching and supporting them.
“The NAIDOC king and queen were nominated by their peers, and it was a big ego boost for them to know their peers thought them worthy of the recognition.”
Mia-Rose Atkinson is the reigning queen and Josiah Johnston-Wyntjes was crowned king.
The event was catered by Iree Paul with her signature native ingredient-centric food, including kangaroo sliders and emu pies.
“A few of the kids hadn’t had kangaroo or emu before and they loved it,” Ms Teariki said.
“We’ve had a lot of positive feedback and support from everyone who came.”
The organisers extended thanks to the great support they received in pulling the event together to celebrate the youth, including but not limited to Koorie Court, Kapel Telkuna, Swan Hill District Health, Treaty Authority, Ngwalla Willumbong, Salvation Army, Swan Hill Rural City Council and NAIDOC.
Next year, the more casual ball format will be switched out for a debutante ball, with more youth balls planned for later years.
