The NSW Government has announced its commitment to supporting this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations through an allocation of $310,000. The funding aims to empower and promote Aboriginal participation in a series of celebratory events taking place across the state. Running from 2 – 9 July, NAIDOC Week’s theme for this year is ‘For Our Elders,’ highlighting the profound significance of Aboriginal Elders in the community.
Under the Aboriginal Affairs NSW NAIDOC Grants Program, a total of 206 submissions were received across the state, representing a notable increase of 77 submissions compared to the previous year. The Myall Lakes region has benefited from this funding, enabling several groups to organise impactful initiatives honouring and showcasing the cultural wealth of their Elders.
Among the grant recipients in the Myall Lakes region are:
· Mid North Coast Indigenous Broadcasters Association
· Purfleet Taree Local Aboriginal Lands Council
· Taree Indigenous Development and Employment Ltd
· Taree and District Preschool Ltd Forster Neighbourhood Centre Inc
· Bulahdelah Preschool
· Community Resources Ltd
· Holy Name Primary School
· Pacific Palms Public School
Tanya Thompson, member for Myall Lakes, commends the NSW Government’s commitment to supporting NAIDOC Week celebrations and acknowledges the vital role played by Aboriginal Elders in preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of First Nations communities. Thompson states, “Elders have been instrumental in nurturing and guiding generations with their wisdom, knowledge, and leadership. It is essential that we honour and respect their contributions, which have paved the way for the present and future generations.”
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, ‘For Our Elders,’ serves as a reminder to all members of society to value and appreciate the immense cultural significance and ongoing contributions made by First Nations Elders. Their role as knowledge holders, trailblazers, teachers, and nurturers cannot be overstated.
As we enter NAIDOC Week, let us pay homage to the Elders and acknowledge the immense value they bring to our communities. The NSW Government’s investment in these grants demonstrates its commitment to fostering cultural preservation and celebrating the diversity of Aboriginal cultures across the state.
