NAIDOC Week Events

National NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia on 2 - 9 July 2023. At the City of Whittlesea, we celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Check out the events near you and join us in celebrating NAIDOC Week 2023.

About NAIDOC Week

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday) to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

The NAIDOC Week theme for 2023 – For Our Elders highlights the important role and prominent place Elders have played and continue to play in First Nations communities and families across every generation.

NAIDOC Week 2023 Events

NAIDOC Week morning tea

The important role First Nations Elders play in our communities will be the focus of Council’s NAIDOC Week civic event on Monday 3 July.

The theme of NAIDOC Week this year is ‘For Our Elders’, which pays homage to the contribution of Elders as knowledge holders, trailblazers, nurturers, advocates, teachers, survivors and leaders.

Community members are invited to join with distinguished attendees from the Whittlesea Reconciliation Group, Whittlesea Aboriginal Gathering Place Advisory Group and other organisations for this celebration.

Council will provide updates on the Aboriginal Gathering Place, Reconciliation Action Plan, Aboriginal employment initiatives and Aboriginal advisory groups.

The event will be held in the Eucalypt Room at PRACC and run from 10am to 10.40am. The formal proceedings will be followed by morning tea and networking until 11.10am.

For more information, email the Aboriginal Communities Team on sharedmailbox.acd@whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Pop-Up Playgroup - Whittlesea

There’s lots to learn and enjoy at this fun, First Nations-inspired playgroup celebrating NAIDOC Week.

Featuring stories from Wurundjeri Elder, Uncle Ian Hunter, come along and enjoy Aboriginal themed children’s activities, games and arts and craft and storytime with Nicola from Whittlesea Library.

There’s also a ‘deadly’ book collection on display for borrowing and Wurrundjeri Country acknowledgement cards to take away.

Date: Wednesday, 5 July 2023
Location: Whittlesea Community Centre, 57-61 Laurel Street, Whittlesea
Time: 9.30am – 11.30am
Cost: Free
Recommended for all ages: Children, mums, dads and grandparents are welcome!

For more information email playgroups@whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Dancing Our Stories: Teen Workshop

Join us for a cultural journey at our Dancing Our Stories: Teen Workshop honouring this year’s NAIDOC Week theme For Our Elders designed for Koori young people, their friends, and other young individuals aged 12 – 18.

You’ll have a yarn with Indigenous Elders and learn about the rich heritage and customs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities, and pass on teachings to future Elders.

After a yarn, you’ll join the Mob at Indigenous Outreach Projects who will facilitate the workshop where you will learn, move, and embrace the cultural heritage and artistry of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dances.

Dance to the rhythm and honour the vibrant traditions that continue to thrive within our Indigenous Communities.

Date: Wednesday, 5 July 2023
Location: Laurimar Community Activity Centre, 110 Hazel Glen Drive, Doreen
Time: 11am – 3pm
Cost: Free, includes lunch

This event is open for Koori young people, their mates and other young people aged 12 – 18

Book your spot at www.trybooking.com/CJECZ

The Last Daughter

Join us for a special screening of the powerful film, The Last Daughter, presented by the City of Whittlesea’s Aboriginal Communities Department.

Follow Brenda's journey as she uncovers hidden truths and seeks to reconcile her past. Stick around for a live Q&A session with Brenda herself.

Don't miss this insightful documentary.

Date: Friday, 14 July 2023
Location: Yan Yean Theatre PRACC
Time: 11am
Cost: Free
Recommended age: Parental Guidance Recommended for Persons Under 15 Years. It is up to parents to provide guidance.

Bookings essential. Book your spot on the PRACC website.

More events coming soon

Visit the NAIDOC website to find out more information about the celebrations and other events happening in your area.