04/07/2025

NAIDOC Week, from Sunday 6 to Sunday 13 July is a time for all of us to come together and honour the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
 
This year, we mark 50 years of NAIDOC Week, a significant milestone that invites us to reflect on the strength, vision and legacy passed down through generations. The theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, highlights the leadership of Elders and young people shaping the future of our communities.
 
To all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our community, your culture, your stories, and your contributions enrich every part of life in Georges River. Council is committed to listening, learning, and walking alongside you.
 
In February, after many months of listening and working alongside Traditional Owners, local community members, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, and Aboriginal consultancy Ngurra Advisory, Council proudly adopted its first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy.
 
This Strategy focuses on three pillars: Culture, Value and Empower. It helps us listen, support, and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, respect cultural protocols and lived experiences, and create real opportunities that empower self-determination and improve lives.
 
I’m proud to share that this Strategy has been nominated in the Arts and Cultural strategy category of the 2025 Local Government Awards.
 
To help bring the community together during NAIDOC Week, Council invited local businesses, groups, and sole traders to share their ideas for events and activities. From these, we’re proud to support the 3Bridges Family Fun Day at Carss Bush Park and the Dewrang Art Exhibition at Hurstville Museum and Gallery. There will also be NAIDOC activity booklets available across our libraries and a colouring station at the museum for families to enjoy.
 
I encourage you all to join in the celebrations. To find out more, visit the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander webpage.