The annual NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for everyone in the community to celebrate the history and culture of our Indigenous brothers and sisters.
In Camden the festivities will start on Sunday, July 7, when Indigenous artists will decorate the Alan Baker Art Gallery Hitching Post from 11am.
Children aged up to 15 years will take part in the Art Gallery’s Indigenous Rock Painting workshop from 1pm that will be led by Aboriginal artist Gina Glover.
On Tuesday, July 9, between 10.30am and 2pm, NAIDOC celebrations will be on at Oran Park Library and will include traditional welcome to country by local elder Glenda Chalker.
There will also be a raising of the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, several performances, including traditional Indigenous dances, stories and games.
At lunch time, Goanna Hut bush tucker will be serving native foods, influenced by traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cooking methods for all to enjoy.
Last but not least, Camden Civic Centre, in partnership with Camden Region Economic Taskforce, will host local Aboriginal artist, Danielle Mate Sullivan from 10am on Wednesday, July 10.
Ms Sullivan will share the story of her success as an Indigenous artist and business owner.
She will then be joined by a panel of business development and legal experts, who will discuss the challenges and opportunities artists face.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said she was proud there was so much scheduled during NAIDOC Week, which runs 7-14 July.
“In the most recent census, almost 2,000 residents across the Camden area identified as having an Indigenous background,” Cr Fedeli said.
“It’s so important to celebrate their rich and vibrant culture, history and stories.
“We’re committed to building and maintaining strong links with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and taking every opportunity we can to weave their stories into our initiatives.”
