Southern Downs Regional Council will celebrate NAIDOC Week 2018 (July 8 to 15) and is proud to support the local calendar of events being held across the region from 7 July to 19 July!

NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In 2018, NAIDOC Week will celebrate the contributions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have made to our communities, our families, our rich history and our nation with the theme: Because of her, we can!

Leaders, trailblazers, politicians, activists and social change advocates, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have fought for law and justice, equal rights, rights to country, access to education, employment and to maintain and celebrate culture, language, music and art.

There are several events which have become regular highlights on the local NAIDOC Week calendar, including the Combined Church Service (7 July), Police Flag Raising Ceremony (9 July), Waringh Waringh Elders Morning Tea (12 July) and Health Services activities (18 & 19 July).

The Warwick Community Luncheon on Tuesday, 10 July, will include live music, dancers and special guest speakers. The whole community is invited to come and share their own stories of women’s achievements from around the world, while enjoying lunch together.

The Warwick Indigenous Network Group (WING) will host a NAIDOC Information Event (11 July) to provide information on the services available throughout the region.

The NAIDOC Art Show will feature a local celebration of Indigenous culture from 9 July to 14 July and local artists are invited to exhibit their artworks.

NAIDOC Celebration in the Piazza will take place in Stanthorpe’s main street on Saturday, 14 July, and will showcase dancers, children’s activities, didgeridoo playing displays and information.

The community is invited to participate in the NAIDOC Community Day (15 July) at Stanthorpe Civic Centre to enjoy music, dance, an art display and children’s activities.

Southern Downs Mayor, Tracy Dobie thanked the NAIDOC Week working group and participating organisations and community groups for the various events that will be held during July.

“It’s inspiring to see government and non-government organisations working together to celebrate NAIDOC Week,” Cr Dobie said.

“I encourage all residents across the Southern Downs to attend any of the wonderful celebrations.

“These events have been organised for everyone to come together to reflect on the history and identity of our Indigenous culture.”

For more information on NAIDOC Week please contact the event organisers or contact Council’s Community Services Coordinator, Kerry Marsden, on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372).